5 Offseason Priorities for the Memphis Grizzlies

5. Determine a Style

Dave Joerger was originally brought in as the Memphis Grizzlies head coach after a few years of being an assistant to revamp the offense. Each time Dave has tried to integrate a more modern NBA offense, the Grizzlies have ultimately struggled. It can’t be due to Dave’s coaching. Every time he embraced the “GNG” style of Lionel Hollins, the team found regular-season success.

However, to reach title contention status, the Memphis Grizzlies need to undergo a reality check. While Joerger was on the hot seat to begin the season, his ability to manage a team that lost its two best players and two best role players and was integrating new pieces throughout the season was remarkable. The Grizzlies should not have made the playoffs with its cast of misfits.

However, Dave Joerger’s high basketball IQ led them to the playoffs.

Here’s where the “style” thing becomes an issue. The “Grit and Grind” is a problem. Dave’s understanding of “Grit and Grind” means “play the guys who have been at these situations, because they can grind it out.”

While it won some regular season games, playing Vince Carter, Matt Barnes, Chris Andersen and Jordan Farmar more than young guys Lance Stephenson, Jarell Martin, P.J. Hairston and Xavier Mumford cost them Game 3.

In addition, “Grit and Grind” has a limited ceiling. You can pull out all the analytical stats in the world, but the most simple reasoning behind this is that 3s are worth more than 2s. While Dave has shown a desire to become more modernized, the Grizzlies don’t have the personnel for it, which needs to change if they want to raise their ceiling.

Next: 4. Where's the Support