The Memphis Grizzlies have some work to do this offseason.
The Memphis Grizzlies need to fix their roster.
The Grizzlies recently lost their first-round matchup vs the 7-seed Los Angeles Lakers in six games, and it raised a lot of questions about what the future for Memphis will look like.
Throughout the series (up until Game 6), the Grizzlies competed well on both sides of the floor despite missing key big men Steven Adams and Brandon Clarke. But despite their frontcourt absences, there are clearly areas Memphis needs to improve this offseason.
We explore three offseason splash moves that could help solve the team’s issues heading into next season.
1. Addressing their small forward issue: OG Anunoby
The Grizzlies need a new small forward; Dillon Brooks doesn’t cut it anymore.
As we’ve seen throughout this season Brooks is an All-NBA level defender and he has a fantastic track record of guarding all-stars in the league. But his offense shortcomings outweigh his defensive prowess.
Brooks has some of the most questionable shot selections in the league, and he slows down the Grizzlies’ offense. This season was also his worst shooting season since his rookie year. Memphis is already a team who lacks floor spacing, and that’s something you need in abundance next to someone like Morant to get the most out of his slashing ability.
Possibly worst of all, Brooks has a habit of on and off-court antics. And his way of acting seems like something he won’t change anytime soon.
With Brooks being a free agent this summer, a perfect small forward replacement would be OG Anunoby.
Anunoby is someone that is the polar opposite of Brooks and is exactly what the Grizzlies need.
During the playoffs, Memphis lacked shooting and extra shot-creating. Anunoby is someone who can provide both, and he doesn’t compromise the Grizzlies’ defensive identity. In fact, he makes it stronger.
Anunoby has proven playoff experience and still fits the young core Memphis is building. During the trade deadline this season there were rumors the Grizz tried to acquire him, but it didn’t happen. With Anunoby only having one year and a player option left on his contract, while the Raptors seem content with offloading anyone but Scottie Barnes, Memphis should manage to get him for a reasonable price.
The Grizzlies have all their own first-round picks up until 2030, a Golden State pick next year, and plenty of young assets. They can easily assemble a good trade package for any player. With Anunoby on a soon-expiring contract, 2-3 first-rounders plus Ziaire Williams a former top 10 pick that’s shown promise, should be enough to acquire the once NBA champion.
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.
3. Vets: Will Barton, Rudy Gay
If anything is clear after all the on and off-court antics the Grizzlies went through this season, it’s that they need more veteran leadership. Apart from Steven Adams, and a short stint from Danny Green, Memphis has no vets.
This team more than anything needs guys that provide guidance off the court, rather than actual help on the court. One guy who can do a bit of both is Will Barton.
Barton is someone who would be entering his 12th year in the league, and many players have spoken up about how he’s been a great mentor for them, including Bones Hyland. Barton is still someone who has some left in the tank as a palyer as well. This year he was pretty rocky, but last year he averaged 15 points per game for the Denver Nuggets. Barton also played college in Memphis, so a reunion for the last few years of his career seems like a great fit.
Barton is a free agent this year and has an opportunity to get good minutes with the Grizzlies. Considering the Memphis connection, a $5 million/year deal should get the job done.
Another veteran who would be a match made in heaven for the Grizzlies is Rudy Gay. Gay is almost 37 years old and just had the worst season of his career. Despite this fact, he has a lot to provide this Memphis organization that has nothing to do with his individual skill.
Ten years ago, Rudy himself was a fantastic young player for the Grizzlies. With a young team right now that has lots of learning to do, Gay can be a leader that I believe guys like Morant, Desmond Bane, and Jaren Jackson Jr. can relate to. And of course for Rudy and every Grizzlies fan, it would be great to see him put on a Grind City uniform one more time.