Memphis Grizzlies: The shooting guard dilemma

Tony Allen

Why the Memphis Grizzlies should start him:

The emotional appeal! The “Grindfather” Tony Allen is the heart and soul of the franchise. He’s the embodiment of “grit” and “grind.” Without him, those things wouldn’t exist in the Memphis Grizzlies’ blood. Benching Tony Allen could be a train-wreck for chemistry. Zach Randolph has handled it well, aside from Fizdale’s late-game decisions.

Despite his atrocious start, there’s hope for improvement. His player efficiency rating is 7.7, well below the league’s average of 15. His shooting slash is 29.6/33.3/66.7. Tony Allen is a last resort for a starting unit.

In his last game, he scored 11 points on 3-for-5 shooting and grabbed 7 rebounds. As Chandler Parsons’ health progresses, if Tony Allen could deliver performances like that, the Memphis Grizzlies will be in good position for success.

His “First-Team All Defense” is certainly a plus for the Memphis Grizzlies. They have to match-up against scoring wings such as Klay Thompson, Devin Booker, Zach LaVine,\ James Harden (Yes, he’s a “point guard,” but do you really want Conley guarding him?) and Kawhi Leonard at least three times a year. There’s no one on the Grizzlies that could cover them like Tony Allen.

Why the Memphis Grizzlies shouldn’t start him:

He can’t shoot.

Furthermore, he makes too many bone-head plays on both ends of the court. Whether it’s a poor pass, a dribble off his foot, a wild layup or foolish gamble on defensive, some of his mistakes cost the Memphis Grizzlies some points.

As the league is leaning towards the 3-ball, Tony Allen will be ignored on the offensive end of the court all game. Against the Clippers, Blake Griffin “guarded” Tony Allen, clogging the lane for Marc Gasol and Mike Conley. If Fizdale wants All-Star performances from Mike Conley, Marc Gasol and Chandler Parsons, he must minimize TA’s role.