Memphis Grizzlies talk to Houston Rockets about Shane Battier

The Grizzlies had serious discussions Wednesday with the Houston Rockets regarding a proposed deal that would swap second-year center Hasheem Thabeet for forward Shane Battier.

A deal would hinge on Memphis’ willingness to also include a future first-round draft pick in its bid to reunite with Battier. The Griz failed in their initial attempt to acquire Battier earlier this year and may try to enlist a third team to avoid sending the Rockets a pick.

Memphis’ 2011 first-round selection — albeit lottery protected — is already owed to the Utah Jazz as compensation in a trade for Ronnie Brewer last season.

Griz general manager Chris Wallace wouldn’t confirm nor deny specific trade talks. However, he said the organization doesn’t feel any pressure to make a deal.

“We’re active,” Wallace said. “We’re trolling around. Maybe it leads to something, maybe it won’t. It’s tough to put a percentage on whether we’re doing a deal. Right now, I’d say it’s about 50-50.”

Indications are the Griz are more likely to consummate a minor transaction, if any, mainly as a result of fruitless discussions with numerous teams. It is believed that Thabeet remains the biggest candidate to be moved.