2. Bench Scoring: Caris LeVert
The Memphis Grizzlies over the last few seasons have been one of the deepest teams in the league. But throughout this playoffs, they severely lacked bench scoring. Someone who can come in and address that is Caris LeVert.
LeVert is someone who has been a great scorer throughout his NBA career on multiple franchises, and he’s a free agent this year. The issue with LeVert is sometimes he can be inconsistent scoring the ball as a first or second option. That’s why bringing him off the bench would be a perfect role for him and the Grizzlies.
In Cleveland this season, LeVert’s points were down to the lowest since his second year in the NBA, but it was his most efficient shooting the 3-ball at 39%. He primarily operated in a bench role this season with the Cavs, so it’s something he’s done before. With Memphis, he would be the clear 6th man and would have plenty of opportunity to score the ball.
LeVert is entering the prime of his career. His decision this offseason all depends on what kind of role he wants to have in the NBA. He’s been a number one option on mediocre teams, and he’s been a 6th man on a good team. Something tells me he wants to win rather than just put up good numbers.
If Memphis offloads Dillon Brooks and reconfigures its roster, it will have around $20-25 million before it hits the luxury tax. LeVert will probably want something around the $18 million dollar range. Although $18 million might be expensive for a 6th man, LeVert is exactly the kind of scorer and defender Memphis needs off their bench.