Memphis Grizzlies: Projecting NBA 2K ratings for the roster

Apr 22, 2016; Memphis, TN, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Zach Randolph (50) during the second quarter against the San Antonio Spurs 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; Memphis Grizzlies forward Zach Randolph (50) during the second quarter against the San Antonio Spurs in game three of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports

The Memphis Grizzlies may not be the team everyone fights to use in “quick play” mode on NBA 2k17, but we tried our hand at predicting what the entire roster’s ratings will be when the game releases in September.

NBA 2K has been a dominating phenomenon over the past decade. This year, it’ll be no different.

NBA 2K17 will have the Dream Team and this year’s Olympic team. They will also provide improved graphics. NBA 2K is also enhancing their rebrand option by allowing gamers to expand the league by as many as six teams. Furthermore, you will be able to add in Euroleague teams, historic teams, expansion and rebranded teams in MyGM and MyLeague modes.

The Memphis Grizzlies have never been a go-to NBA 2K team for most gamers, unless you are Wade Baldwin. With an injection of more shooting and athleticism, how will each Grizzlies player fare in NBA 2K17?

Special shout out to basketball-reference.com for all the stats you see below.

Starters

Mike Conley (last year: 85)

2015-2016 stats: 15.3 points, 6.1 assists, 2.9 rebounds, 1.2 steals, 36.3% shooting from 3, 31.4 minutes in 56 games

After a lackluster season, Mike Conley may not exceed his NBA 2K rating from last season. However, with his hefty payday, he may get a little more love than his on-court action reflected. If he is featured more heavily in the offense next year, he should get an increase in his NBA 2K rating… and some All-Star Game buzz.

Projected Rating: 84

Tony Allen (last year: 78)

2015-2016 stats: 8.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, 1.1 assists, 1.7 steals, 25.3 minutes in 64 games.

Tony Allen is not the most ideal NBA 2K player. As a defensive-minded wing with very little shooting ability, he is not a go-to option on the game. His defensive wizardry will boost his NBA 2K rating a bit.

Projected Rating: 77

Chandler Parsons (last year: 79)

2015-2016 stats: 13.7 points, 5.7 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 41.4% shooting from 3, 29.5 minutes in 61 games.

Chandler Parsons’ injury-riddled season is concerning to the common fan, but if he stays healthy, he is a key cog in this Grizzlies lineup. His all-around versatility and elite shooting helps his cause for a high NBA 2K rating.

Projected Rating: 81

Zach Randolph (last year: 84)

2015-2016 stats: 15.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, 47.5 shooting from the field, 29.6 minutes in 68 games.

Zach Randolph is not getting younger. The old-school big man saw dipped numbers across the board last season. However, he is still a 20-10 threat on any given night.

Projected Rating: 81

Marc Gasol (last year: 87)

2015-2016 stats: 16.6 points, 7.0 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 1.3 blocks, 46.4% shooting from the field, 34.4 minutes in 52 games.

Marc Gasol is an elite two-way big. He may not be the most dominant video game center, but he is still a solid big man in NBA 2K. A foot injury and lackluster production may hinder his rating; however, it should not be too low.

Projected Rating: 85

Bench

JaMychal Green (last year: 72)

2015-2016 stats: 7.4 points, 4.8 rebounds, 46.5% shooting from the field, 18.5 minutes in 78 games.

JaMychal Green experienced a pseudo-breakout year. His athleticism and production should give him a boost from his NBA 2K rating from last year.

Projected Rating: 76

Brandan Wright (last year: 75)

2015-2016 stats: 6.9 points, 3.6 rebounds, 1.3 blocks, 17.7 minutes in 12 games.

Brandan Wright spent all but 12 games glued to the bench with knee issues. He is still a bouncy center that is an alley-oop threat, a joy to all NBA 2K gamers. If he can stay healthy and produce, he’ll be effective in NBA 2K and for the Memphis Grizzlies.

Projected Rating: 74

Wade Baldwin IV (last year: N/A)

2015-2016 stats (college): 14.1 points, 5.2 assists, 4.0 rebounds, 40.6% shooting from 3, 30.4 minutes in 33 games.

Being a borderline lottery pick usually bodes well for rookies for NBA 2K ratings. For Wade Baldwin IV, it should be no different. The combo guard with a smooth jumper and above-average athleticism will receive a decent NBA 2K rating.

Projected Rating: 72

James Ennis (last year: 70)

2015-2016 stats: 7.2 points, 1.9 rebounds, 0.7 steals, 44.8% shooting from 3, 15.0 minutes in 22 games.

James Ennis bounced between the NBA and the D-League. After a late season explosion, he earned a multi-year deal with the Memphis Grizzlies. His shooting stroke and athleticism should help him be a solid NBA 2K player for the Grizz.

Projected Rating: 75

Vince Carter (last year: 72)

2015-2016 stats: 6.6 points, 2.4 rebounds, 38.8% shooting from the field, 34.9% shooting from 3, 16.8 minutes in 60 games.

The aging future Hall of Famer isn’t the ultimate video game player he once was. At this stage of his career, he is essentially a shot creator and veteran leader.

Projected Rating: 73

Troy Daniels (last year: 67)

2015-2016 stats: 5.6 points, 1.3 rebounds, 48.4% shooting from 3, 11.1 minutes in 43 games.

The newly signed shooter has one of the best 3-point shooting touches in basketball. Other than that, there is not another fascinating aspect of his game. For a 3-point marksman off the bench, he should receive a little upgrade in his rating.

Projected Rating: 72

Jarell Martin (last year: 67)

2015-2016 stats: 5.7 points, 3.2 rebounds, 14.1 minutes in 27 games.

Jarell Martin is raw and injury-prone. When given playing time, he showed flashes of a potential athletic energy big in this league. This year may be an arrival year for Jarell Martin, if he can stay healthy.

Projected Rating: 70

Deyonta Davis (last year: N/A)

2015-2016 stats (college): 7.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, 1.8 blocks, 59.8% shooting from the field, 18.6 minutes in 35 games.

Deyonta Davis has tons of raw potential. Next year, he may not be a major player for the Memphis Grizzlies. However, with the right development, he can be an impact player for the Grizz.

Projected Rating: 67

Jordan Adams (last year: 70)

2014-2015 stats (only 2 games played in 2015/2016 due to injury): 3.1 points, 0.5 steals, 40.0% shooting from 3, 8.3 minutes in 30 games.

Jordan Adams has not been able to stay on the court. He has shown flashes of scoring and shooting potential, NBA 2K favorite attributes.

Projected Rating: 68

Andrew Harrison (last year: N/A)

2014-2015 stats (college): 9.3 points, 3.6 assists, 38.3% shooting from 3, 25.5 minutes in 39 games.

Andrew Harrison is a crafty combo guard. It’ll be interesting to see how NBA 2K rates him.

Projected Rating: 65

Tony Wroten (last year: 75)

2015-2016 stats: 8.4 points, 2.5 assists, 2.6 rebounds, 18.0 minutes in 8 games.

Tony Wroten is a deft passer and ball-handler but a horrendous shooter. Because of injury, he did not get significant action. His flashy passing should be fun to use on NBA 2K.

Projected Rating: 73

NBA 2K17 should be an incredible game. Hopefully, the Grizzlies can be a powerhouse both on the game and in reality.

Next: Chandler Parsons: ‘I’m going to be recruiting more talent to Memphis’