Into the Bears’ Den: Our ‘Hot Take’ NBA and Grizzlies predictions

Ryan’s Grizz Prediction: D.J. Stephens will play meaningful minutes by the end of the year

In the start of the preseason, I heard D.J. Stephens may not have developed like fans had hoped. Everyone has recognized the world-class athleticism, but he hasn’t turned that into becoming a top-notch NBA player. This is the year I think that changes. He has seemed to do better and better as the preseason has gone on. Stephens remind me a little of Demarre Carroll–they have the same size and are both athletic. Stephens can shoot the 3 which is what made Carroll become a key piece with both the Hawks and Raptors. If Stephens can consistently shoot from behind the arc while also using the athleticism to become a key defender, he could easily get time. Carroll was also a late bloomer kind of like what Stephens is at the moment. The Grizzlies have a ton of forwards, but none offer quite what Stephens could. I could easily see Stephen jumping Ennis.

Stephen is versatile as well. He could potentially guard wing players or play a big forward in small ball. Fizdale wants to develop players and if any player could use development to become great, it’s Stephens.