Into the Bears’ Den: Analyzing who will earn the Memphis Grizzlies’ remaining roster spots
By Ian Pierno
Wayne Selden
Parker Fleming
Why he will make the team: 3-and-D potential. Selden shot 36.6 percent from 3 and averaged 0.7 steals. Those numbers don’t help his cause; however, if he outperforms roster-locks Troy Daniels and James Ennis, the Memphis Grizzlies will at least think about keeping him.
Why he will not make the team: Wing depth. The Memphis Grizzlies are loaded on the wings with Parsons, Allen, Ennis, Adams, VC, Daniels and Baldwin. In addition, Andrew Harrison and DJ Stephens are fighting for spots, as well. If he doesn’t showcase anything that sets him apart, then he’ll be sent packing.
Verdict: Cut
Ryan Schmitz
Why he will make the team: Wing Defense. I think he is the longshot of the group. He could make the team if he steps up his defense. Troy Daniels hasn’t been playing very much defense and Vince Carter isn’t a great defender anymore so Selden could become that other wing defender the team could use to potentially replace Tony Allen someday.
Why he won’t make the team: Better options. Selden didn’t show a lot of improvement over his college career and in that career, I didn’t see someone who would play in the NBA. He did make a few plays that are worthy, but he wasn’t consistent and the Memphis Grizzlies could decide to go with someone like Stephens or Williams who offer more potential.
Verdict: Cut
Mohamed Bah
Why he will make the team: Wayne Selden has showcased his potential to be a great guard in the NBA. His ball handling, shooting, and size, are what makes him unique.
Why he won’t make the team: I feel he is competing for a spot that is extremely competitive. Quite frankly, they have better options at his position.
Jacob Collins
Why he will make the team: 3-and-D baby! Selden has potential to be a rotation bench wing in the NBA. He has the physical tools to be a plus defender and he also has a solid 3-point shot. He’d need to continue improve his shooting and other offensive skills to stay in the NBA.
Why he won’t make the team: He is not as good as the guys he’s competing against at a position that does not need much more attention. Stephens would appear to be clearly ahead of him at this point simply based upon his work with the Iowa Energy last year. Point guard is a position of need and Selden does not fill that role either. I think the Memphis Grizzlies are likely planning to offer him a contract with the Energy and hope he develops into a rotation wing.