Memphis Grizzlies 2016-17 Review: Jarell Martin
After receiving playing time at the beginning of the season, Jarell Martin fell out of the Memphis Grizzlies’ rotation. Is he a piece or an asset?
In the early portion of the season, it looked like Jarell Martin could land in the Memphis Grizzlies’ rotation. After a 13-point outing early in the season and numerous games with double-digit rebounds, Martin had the potential to permanently break into the rotation. However, once players returned from injury, Martin found himself on the outside looking in and played the rest of the season in Iowa.
Though he did have some standout performances in Iowa, it couldn’t translate to the big leagues. In 42 games, he averaged 3.9 points and 3.9 rebounds in 13.3 minutes.
As we review his 2016-17 season, what were some bright spots in Martin’s play? What are some things he has to work on going forward?
Offense
Jarell Martin’s offense is definitely a work in progress. Despite flashing enticing versatility for his size, he was mildly inconsistent from the field, shooting a paltry 38.4 percent. Shooting percentages like that aren’t ideal, especially from a big man. If he wants to stick around and find a niche in this league, he must develop consistency from the field.
Other than that, Martin showed immense potential of being a mismatch-4 in this league. In lineups with two other big men, he uses his size and strength to bully opposing small forwards. As the 4-man, Martin has a blend of speed and athleticism for his size that’s jaw-dropping.
In addition, he’s also shown that he has a silky smooth handle – something that could bode well for the Memphis Grizzlies going forward:
If he uses his size, speed and handle to his advantage, he’d become a main key in the Grizzlies’ rotation. If he adds in a consistent mid-range jumper, all of the sudden, he becomes a Swiss-army weapon for this team going forward.
Offensive Grade: C+
Defense
Jarell Martin’s defense isn’t great by any means, but it isn’t terrible. He doesn’t generate a ton of blocks or steals. Nor does he lock down the opposing team’s best player, but he does foul a lot (5.9 fouls per 36 minutes).
He has the tools to be, at least, an average defender. His size won’t hurt him in post-up situations, and his foot-speed is good enough to switch onto smaller guards.
If he wants to earn consistent minutes with this team, he can’t be a liability on
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defense. Look for Fizdale to try to experiment in the Summer League by putting Martin in a role similar to JaMychal Green.
Defensive Grade: D+
Final Grade: C
It’s been the same narrative for Martin as it’s been for the Memphis Grizzlies’ past first-round picks. He has the tools to be a rotation player in this league and to be a unique contributor for the Grizzlies. The question is, can he pan out?
Martin flashed that potential over the course of the season. Now that he gets to experience his first Summer League, he has the chance to make major strides in becoming a legit NBA player.