Do Not Overlook The Memphis Grizzlies
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The Memphis Grizzlies faced a challenging start to the season, battling with the absence of their star player, Ja Morant. The initial struggles were anticipated, but what unfolded was far from a season write-off. In fact, it became a pivotal period that revealed the depth and resilience of this team.
A year ago, Desmond Bane found himself on the all-star "snubs" list. This season using that as motivation to fuel his campaign. To the casual fan, Bane's performance this season might not be quite eye-catching. However, considering the adversity the team faced—missing Morant, dealing with Marcus Smart's absence, and losing starting center Steven Adams for the entire season—it's crucial to recognize Bane's growth as a primary ball handler.
Taking on the role of the team's primary scoring option, Bane has surged, putting up a career-high 18.8 shots per game. His shooting splits closely resemble last season's, showcasing his capability in a more significant role. This adjustment is a testament to Bane's adaptability and underscores his potential as a key player for the Grizzlies.
Beyond Bane’s all-star campaign, the Grizzlies' front office often operates in the shadows, unnoticed by opposing fans. However, their history of uncovering talent in late rounds is impressive, especially in recent years, with names like Desmond Bane, Brandon Clarke, Xavier Tillman, and the emerging GG Jackson.
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GG Jackson, the youngest player in the NBA, has started to blossom as of recently for Memphis. Picked up in the second round of the recent draft, the 19-year-old rookie has showcased impressive stats in his last two games, averaging 21.5 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 blocks. This is a promising sign for Memphis, exemplifying the success of their drafting ability and developing young talent.
Injuries have been a recurring theme for the Grizzlies, with Ja Morant's injury, in particular, altering the course of a playoff series just a year ago. However, these setbacks have provided opportunities for players to showcase their ability who have not had a chance to yet, revealing the team's underlying depth.
As the Grizzlies navigate these challenges, it's evident they stand on the brink of a turning point. The team's commitment to talent acquisition and ongoing roster development positions them well for the future. We know that the front office is in win-now mode due to the aggression they showed in trading for Kevin Durant during last season’s trade deadline. The key now lies in overcoming the unfortunate amount of injuries which realistically requires a bit of luck. The Grizzlies could emerge even stronger from this adversity, solidifying their presence as a force to be reckoned with in the NBA.
