Low-risk, high upside fliers
One of the most impressive things that Kleiman has done so far in his run for the Grizzlies is making smart under-the-radar signings.
Signing back-up point guard Tyus Jones to a three-year, $28 million dollar deal has given the team a valuable backup point guard who fits the team’s core at the age of 24, without using a lot of their cap.
Then, there’s been some smart post-draft signings in agreeing to deals with Jontay Porter and John Konchar. Porter who was initially viewed as a lottery pick was derailed by multiple ACL injuries. Konchar was a senior from a small school who possesses an excellent 3-point potential. Both players could have a future in Memphis.
Hinkie used this strategy and ended up uncovering great role-players like Robert Covington. What this strategy shows is that while these may not be stars, filling out a rotation for a cheap price is good for a team in the long-term.