A ruptured right Achilles tendon did more than just close the 2015–16 National Basketball Association (NBA) season of veteran point guard Mario Chalmers, it also marked the end of his stay with the Memphis Grizzlies. 

Last Wednesday, Memphis battled the Boston Celtics and in the third quarter, Chalmers suffered the injury that forced him out of the game. 

Because of the Grizzlies' issues with injuries this season and the desire for a strong playoff push, they waived Chalmers last Thursday to have an extra roster spot. 

"Mario did an incredible job for us since coming to Memphis," Grizzlies general manager Chris Wallace said in a statement posted on the team's website. Wallace praised how the 29-year-old point guard adjusted when he joined the Grizzlies and the way he "endeared" himself to the team and the city.

The Grizzlies executive also credited Chalmers for the team's success this season. However, he added, "But with Mario's season-ending injury and our already depleted roster, it became necessary to free up a roster spot."

Clearing a roster spot gives the Grizzlies a chance to sign a player who can actually see action for them and contribute to the current campaign. 

Chalmers, a two-time NBA champion, was traded by the Miami Heat earlier this season to Memphis. 

The former Kansas Jayhawk immediately made an impact to the Grizzlies and in 55 games (seven starts) played was averaging 10.8 points, 2.6 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 1.5 steals, in 22.8 minutes of action per outing. 

Unfortunately, those numbers were not enough for the Grizzlies to consider his stay. 

Another factor that may have affected Memphis' decision in waiving Chalmers is his existing contract that expires at the end of the season, making him an unrestricted free agent this year. 

The Grizzlies are currently fifth in the Western Conference standings holding a 38–26 record, something they can improve when they host the New Orleans Pelicans today, Friday.