(Amber Matsumoto/Yahoo Sports Illustration)
The 2024-25 NBA season has arrived! We are exploring the significant questions, both the best- and worst-case scenarios, and fantasy projections for all 30 teams. Enjoy the read!
MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES
2023-24 Finish
Offseason Moves
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Additions: Zach Edey, Jaylen Wells, Cam Spencer, Jay Huff
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Subtractions: Ziaire Williams, Trey Jemison, Derrick Rose, Jordan Goodwin, Timmy Allen, Zavier Simpson, Jack White, Lamar Stevens, Yuta Watanabe (it’s astonishing how many players the Grizzlies had last season)
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Complete Roster
<img class="caas-img caas-lazy" alt="Here's everything you need to know for the 2024-25 NBA season. (Henry Russell/Yahoo Sports Illustration)" src="https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/L8q9h6
The Big Question: Can they stay healthy and find the right balance?
Last season, Memphis faced a challenging start with Ja Morant serving a 25-game suspension. The goal of remaining competitive until their star’s return quickly spiraled, leading the Grizzlies into a downward trajectory.
Things took a turn with the pre-opening night announcement that Steven Adams would sit out the entire season. Almost every key player on the team ended up missing significant time. As Zach Kram from The Ringer highlights, last year, the Grizzlies utilized more players and starting lineups than any other team in NBA history, with a staggering 577 total games lost to injuries across 20 different players.
By the time Morant returned, the team had already plunged to a record of 6-19. After just nine games in action, a torn labrum in his right shoulder left the Grizzlies to endure the remainder of the season and look toward the future.
However, there were redeeming aspects. With Morant sidelined, Desmond Bane stepped up as the primary scoring option, achieving an average of 23.7 points and 5.5 assists per game—both of which were career-highs, all while maintaining efficient shooting at the highest usage rate of his career. Meanwhile, Jaren Jackson Jr. managed to help coach Taylor Jenkins orchestrate what was nearly a top-10 defense, despite the team’s injury struggles. While Jackson may not have navigated the usage-efficiency curve as adeptly as Bane, he also recorded career highs in both scoring and facilitation, taking on a more demanding role in the absence of others.
41% of his baskets last season were unassisted. Following Morant’s season-ending injury, JJJ was fourth in usage rate in the NBA, trailing only Joel Embiid, Luka Dončić, and Jalen Brunson.
The roster adjustments in Memphis introduced Vince Williams Jr., a fierce 6-foot-4 defender boasting a 6-foot-11 wingspan, who displayed potential as a complementary scorer and playmaker. This shift allowed GG Jackson II, the youngest player in the NBA, to gain over 1,200 minutes of experience, indicating his game can adapt to the NBA level — although, at this stage, it seems more suited for a bench role. This opportunity also enabled Scotty Pippen Jr. to demonstrate his capabilities as a defensive-minded backup point guard tasked with setting plays; he capitalized on this, showcasing impressive performances in Summer League and preseason, leading to a guaranteed contract.
Moreover, the Grizzlies secured the No. 9 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, presenting a chance to significantly enhance a 50-win team. They opted for the most promising option available: 7-foot-4, 305-pound center Zach Edey from Purdue. Edey possesses the attributes of a powerful screener, an exceptional offensive rebounder, and a commanding low-block presence, which could revolutionize Memphis’ offensive strategy:
The most efficient post option in the preseason has been – you guessed it – Grizzlies rookie Zach Edey.
The patience & touch pops on film. Good hands & wide catch radius. Not sure if doubling one pass away is going to work against him – willing to get off it, and quickly. (1/3) pic.twitter.com/DPujnoe8ZC
— Nekias (Nuh-KY-us) Duncan (@NekiasNBA) October 15, 2024
The rationale here is clear: to rehabilitate the injured players…
healthy; pair them with the young guys; add in a giant; resume whooping that trick. But it’s not quite as simple as “re-spawn right back where you were before Ja’s suspension.”
Is Edey ready to immediately start at center on a championship contender? How quickly can JJJ get acclimated to a new frontcourt partner, and can he return to Defensive Player of the Year-level effectiveness? Is Brandon Clarke, who played just six games last season following a ruptured Achilles, ready to once again play like a premier backup big?
How does Memphis integrate Marcus Smart and Luke Kennard, neither of whom have played much with Morant, once everyone’s available? (Also, I know Smart’s a “stretch-6,” but … is he basically a 6-foot-3 combo forward right now?) How congested will the half-court offense be when iffy shooters Morant, Smart and JJJ (just 32.6% from deep over the past four seasons) share the court with Edey? And if Jenkins downsizes to get more shooting on the floor — the Morant-Bane-Kennard three-guard lineup blitzed opponents by 91 points in 102 minutes two seasons back — how do the Grizz avoid getting sliced up on the perimeter and pounded on the boards?
Answering those questions requires getting everybody on the court … and there, again, Memphis is off to a rocky start. Williams and Jackson will both miss the start of the season. JJJ hasn’t played in preseason with a strained hamstring. And while Morant’s preseason premiere offered some thrilling reminders …
… he also exited early after rolling his ankle, and has been sidelined since with a “mild sprain.”
Both Morant and Jackson Jr. are expected to be ready for the season opener; this, obviously, is good. These restored Grizzlies have a ton of potential answers to the questions they’ll face in a loaded West. But they’ll need all hands on deck to find them.
Best-case scenario
The return of Morant and the arrival of Edey transform a team that finished dead last in the NBA in points in the paint last season back into the one that led the league the previous four campaigns. The self-creation growth that Bane and JJJ showed makes them even more dangerous when, with Ja back, they don’t have to do as much. The returns of Smart, Kennard, Clarke and John Konchar give the Grizzlies a full complement of capable veterans to rely on; ongoing development from youngsters Williams, Jackson, Pippen, Santi Aldama and Jake LaRavia give Jenkins fresh legs to deploy in a faster-paced offense. It all adds up to top-10 finishes on both sides of the ball, 50-plus wins and a deep postseason run — the
The Grizzlies are resuming from where they left off when everything began to unravel.
If everything falls apart
The various elements never fully integrate. The newly implemented offensive strategy turns out to be neither effective nor straightforward, as a more fluid and decentralized approach reduces Morant’s dominance on the ball. Additionally, a higher-paced gameplay complicates utilizing the strong presence of Edey in the paint. Despite having several intriguing components at his disposal, Jenkins faces challenges in establishing consistent two-way lineups that possess adequate shooting, robust defensive resolve at the point of attack, and adequate rebounding to compete against formidable teams in the West. If Morant, Bane, or Jackson were to miss significant time, Memphis would suddenly appear much less formidable than anticipated. The Grizzlies might stumble into the play-in tournament, fail to reach the playoffs, and confront even larger questions as the summer approaches.
Fantasy spin
The Grizzlies possess a wealth of fantasy prospects, starting with Jackson. JJJ stands out as one of the more dependable defensive assets, and his scoring and three-point shooting make him a solid choice in the third round. Although I rank Bane higher than Morant, Morant’s Average Draft Position (ADP) is about six spots superior to Bane’s. In category leagues, I prefer Bane due to his efficiency and lower turnover rate. On the other hand, Morant is better suited for points leagues, similar to Paolo Banchero.
I have been actively selecting Edey as a late-round pick. Edey possesses the potential to be a valuable fantasy contributor, given his ability to block shots, rebound, and shoot efficiently. Even if he logs only 20-25 minutes per game, his profile indicates he can make an impact in limited playing time. Edey is being drafted in the ninth round, but I would be willing to secure him as early as the eighth round if you anticipate he might not last that long. — Dan Titus
2024-25 schedule
I have always been an enthusiastic supporter of the Grizzlies, and that sentiment will not change! A jump of 21 wins may seem unrealistic, but the last two predominantly healthy versions of this team recorded 56 and 51 victories, and this current roster might even be deeper. Place that 47.5 on a table; Super Grizz is ready to dive off a ladder and splash it into oblivion.
Memphis Grizzlies: Navigating Health and Roster Changes in the 2024-25 NBA Season
Understanding the 2024-25 NBA Landscape
The 2024-25 NBA season presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for the Memphis Grizzlies. With a mix of health concerns and roster changes, the team is tasked with maintaining competitiveness in a highly dynamic Western Conference. As the Grizzlies aim to improve their standing, navigating these transitions will be key to their success.
Key Health Factors Impacting the Grizzlies
Health concerns have always played a significant role in the performance of NBA teams, and the Grizzlies are no exception. The following are some critical health aspects to consider:
- Injury Reports: Keeping track of player injuries and recovery timelines is essential. Key players like Ja Morant and Dillon Brooks must maintain their health to ensure the team performs at its peak.
- Injury Prevention Programs: Implementing comprehensive injury prevention programs can help reduce the likelihood of recurring injuries throughout the season.
- Player Conditioning: Enhanced focus on player conditioning and fitness can pave the way for a more durable roster capable of meeting the season’s demands.
Roster Changes and Their Implications
The offseason brought significant roster changes for the Grizzlies, with new faces and trades reshaping the team dynamics. Here’s a look at these changes:
| Player | Position | Previous Team | Impact on Team |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marcus Smart | Guard | Boston Celtics | Defensive anchor and playmaker |
| Jaren Jackson Jr. | Forward | N/A | Potential for increased scoring and rebounding |
| Desmond Bane | Shooting Guard | N/A | Key scoring option from the perimeter |
Player Performance and Expectations
As the Grizzlies navigate health and roster changes, individual player performance will be crucial. Below are key players to watch:
Ja Morant
Ja Morant is expected to lead the Grizzlies both on and off the court. His ability to drive to the basket and create plays will be paramount as the team adapts to new strategies.
Jaren Jackson Jr.
With significant expectations placed on Jaren Jackson Jr., his growth in scoring and rebounding is vital. As a defensive powerhouse, he must also remain healthy to anchor the defense.
Desmond Bane
Desmond Bane has emerged as one of the team’s most reliable scorers. His shooting efficiency from beyond the arc will significantly impact the Grizzlies’ offensive strategies.
Benefits of Roster Depth
With the introduction of new players, the Grizzlies’ roster depth has improved, which offers several advantages:
- Increased Competition: Healthy competition among players often leads to better overall performance and player development.
- Flexibility in Lineups: A deep roster allows for greater flexibility in lineup adjustments, especially in response to injuries or matchup challenges.
- Reduced Burnout: Distributing minutes among a larger pool of players can help prevent fatigue and burnout, especially during a demanding stretch of the schedule.
Practical Tips for Fans
As fans gear up for the season, here are some practical tips to enhance their experience:
- Stay Updated: Follow the Grizzlies’ official website and social media channels for real-time updates on player health and game schedules.
- Engage with the Community: Join local fan clubs or online forums to discuss games, roster changes, and player performances.
- Attend Games: Nothing beats the live experience. Attending games can strengthen the connection between fans and the team.
First-Hand Experience from the 2023-24 Season
Reflecting on the previous season can shed light on the current state of the Grizzlies. The 2023-24 season was marked by ups and downs, particularly regarding health and player performance. Many fans noted:
– **Impact of Injuries:** Key injuries to star players like Morant hindered the team’s progress, illustrating the importance of health.
– **Emerging Talents:** New players stepping up during challenging times showed promise for the future, emphasizing the need for depth.
– **Coaching Adjustments:** Coaching staff adapted strategies mid-season, focusing on player strengths in light of injuries, which is likely to continue in the current season.
Case Studies: Success Stories of Teams Overcoming Adversity
Several NBA teams have successfully navigated health and roster changes in the past, offering valuable lessons:
Miami Heat (2020-21 Season)
The Heat faced numerous injury issues but managed to stay competitive by relying on their depth and adopting a next-man-up mentality. This approach helped them secure crucial wins and make a playoff push.
Golden State Warriors (2021-22 Season)
After major injuries to key players, the Warriors restructured their bench, leading to the emergence of young talent. Their ability to adapt not only kept them competitive but eventually led them to the NBA Championship.
Future Outlook for the Memphis Grizzlies
As the Grizzlies move into the 2024-25 season, the outlook remains cautiously optimistic. With health as a central focus and a revamped roster, the team has the potential to make significant strides. The combination of experienced players and emerging talents sets the stage for a competitive season ahead.
Conclusion
Navigating health and roster changes is an inevitable part of any NBA season, and for the Memphis Grizzlies, 2024-25 will be no different. With a focus on injury management, roster depth, and player performance, the Grizzlies aim to rise in the Western Conference standings. Fans can look forward to an exciting season filled with potential and promise.
