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5 Things to Learn from the Finals

By Parker Fleming

Nov 5, 2014; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Mike Conley (11), forward Zach Randolph (50) and center Marc Gasol against the Phoenix Suns at US Airways Center. The Grizzlies defeated the Suns 102-91. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 5, 2014; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Mike Conley (11), forward Zach Randolph (50) and center Marc Gasol against the Phoenix Suns at US Airways Center. The Grizzlies defeated the Suns 102-91. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 22, 2016; Memphis, TN, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) dribbles as Memphis Grizzlies guard Tony Allen (9) defends in game three of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at FedExForum. Spurs defeated Grizzlies 96-87. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 22, 2016; Memphis, TN, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) dribbles as Memphis Grizzlies guard Tony Allen (9) defends in game three of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at FedExForum. Spurs defeated Grizzlies 96-87. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Become More Versatile

In these Finals, the most versatile players were the ones who received minutes. Golden State has multiple guys who can guard multiple positions in Klay Thompson (positions 1-3), Draymond Green (1-5), Andre Iguodala (1-4), Harrison Barnes (2-4), and Shaun Livingston (1-4).

In addition, big men Draymond Green and Festus Ezeli can hold their own on switches off picks.

Cleveland has its share of versatile guys. Of course, LeBron James can guard all five positions, J.R. Smith and Iman Shumpert can cover any perimeter position and Richard Jefferson can guard positions 2-4.

Big man Tristian Thompson is athletic and mobile enough to be a good switch on guards in the pick-and-roll.

The Memphis Grizzlies had versatile defenders this past season. The problem is that they are getting old. Tony Allen has also been a human-wrecking ball on defense, guarding anyone from Chris Paul to Kevin Durant. However, age and injuries have Allen heading for a decline.

Matt Barnes could defend positions 2-4; however, he’s 35 and is a free agent this offseason. Lance Stephenson can guard positions 1-3 when called upon, but is under a team option.

The Memphis Grizzlies need to find someone who can guard positions 2-4 through the draft (Malachi Richardson, Denzel Valentine or Taurean Prince) or free agency (Nicolas Batum, Harrison Barnes or Kent Bazemore).

Jarrell Martin and JaMychal Green have the physical and athletic tools to be versatile defenders; however, they need some wings who can cover multiple positions.

Next: 4. More Shooting

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