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Grizzlies Summer League: D.J. Stephens Deserves to be on the Main Roster

By Parker Fleming

Apr 22, 2016; Memphis, TN, USA; General view of towels on the seats prior to the San Antonio Spurs at the Memphis Grizzlies in game three of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 22, 2016; Memphis, TN, USA; General view of towels on the seats prior to the San Antonio Spurs at the Memphis Grizzlies in game three of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports /
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Former University of Memphis high-flyer D.J. Stephens has turned heads in the Summer League with his improved play. Should the Memphis Grizzlies sign him?

D.J. Stephens. When most people think of his name, they will immediately think of his insane 46″ vertical or his jaw-dropping dunks last season in the D-League.

On Monday, in a Summer League game versus the Milwaukee Bucks, Stephens led the Memphis Grizzlies to a 85-81 and put up some excellent numbers: 21 points, seven rebounds and two 3-pointers.

His overall hustle, defensive and high-flying ability makes him a NBA hopeful, but his newfound 3-point stroke gives him the complete look of a legitimate NBA player.

Once he joined the Iowa Energy last season, he averaged 16.1 points on 55 percent shooting from the field and 41.9 percent from 3-point range. In addition, he averaged 7.4 rebounds per game with 1.5 steals and 1.3 blocks.

Even at 6’5″, his athleticism and leaping ability make him a versatile player. He is quick enough to hound point guards, big enough to guard 2s and 3s and explosive enough to guard 4s.

The Grizzlies should take a flyer on Stephens for their main roster. Even if he is an end-of-the-bench guy, bringing the former University of Memphis fan favorite would generate a buzz in the FedEx Forum.

He can be used in multiple situations: as a energy guy off the bench that is a plus on the court in 10-12 minutes, a defensive spark plug, an above-the-rim energizer or a role player for both now and the future.

Stephens has obviously shown the work ethic to expand his game, as he has gone from a low-rated high school recruit to a guy who is generating NBA interest.

If the Grizz were to sign him, he’ll get to learn under David Fizdale, one of the best player development coaches who coached wings such as LeBron James and Dwyane Wade while developing young guys such as Josh Richardson, Justice Winslow and Tyler Johnson.

Stephens could also learn under the “Grindfather,” Tony Allen, on how to become an elite defender in the NBA. Stephens has the tools to become a nightmare on defense with his 6’5″ build and 7’0″ wingspan. If his offensive game can keep improving, he can turn into a strong 3-and-D wing.

In order to sign Stephens, the Grizzlies may need to release near 40-year-old Vince Carter and/or oft-injured 2014 first-round pick Jordan Adams. Honestly, Stephens may be the best option.

His age gives him the edge over Carter, and his athleticism and current play give him more upside than  Adams.

After transforming himself from a dunk specialist into a promising two-way player, Stephens could be the low-risk/high-reward move that Grizzlies should gamble on.

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