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Memphis Grizzlies: Top 5 moments of 2016

By Parker Fleming

Dec 23, 2016; Memphis, TN, USA; Memphis Grizzlies center Marc Gasol (33) drives against Houston Rockets forward Ryan Anderson (3) in the second half at FedExForum. Memphis defeated Houston 115-109. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 23, 2016; Memphis, TN, USA; Memphis Grizzlies center Marc Gasol (33) drives against Houston Rockets forward Ryan Anderson (3) in the second half at FedExForum. Memphis defeated Houston 115-109. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 14, 2016; Memphis, TN, USA; Memphis Grizzlies head coach David Fizdale reacts during the first half against the Cleveland Cavaliers at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 14, 2016; Memphis, TN, USA; Memphis Grizzlies head coach David Fizdale reacts during the first half against the Cleveland Cavaliers at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports /

1. The Offseason

Three-pointers are fun. The “Spanish McGregor” became an internet phenomenon. Beating the Golden State Warriors by 21 points without your starting point guard is extremely impressive.

However, let’s not forget how it started.

The Fizz-effect

To start their offseason, the Memphis Grizzlies replaced Dave Joerger with Miami Heat assistant-coach Dave Fizdale.

In addition to a revamped offense, Fizdale utilizes his players to their strengths. He’s also given Tony Allen offensive freedom without fans cringing in their seats. He’s  an obvious front-runner for the Coach of the Year award.

Draft/Free Agency

For the first time in a while, it seems like the Grizzlies finally had a good draft. Memphis selected Wade Baldwin in the first round. The rookie has had a rough start but shows promise and strong upside. In addition, they traded for Deyonta Davis and Rade Zagorac – two young building blocks for the Grizzlies future.

In July, the front office made moves. On the first day of free agency, they struck gold landing Chandler Parsons and re-signing Mike Conley to max deals. Both players, healthy, are key ingredients for this championship recipe.

The Grizzlies did a surprisingly good job at rounding out their depth. James Ennis and Troy Williams have proven to be a multi-dimensional threats off the bench. We know Troy Daniels is the shooter the Grizzlies needed, but he could be the designated microwave scorer. Even though he’s been in a starting role quite a bit this season, Andrew Harrison is the answer at the backup point guard spot.

Props to Chris Wallace and the rest of the front office for rounding out one of the best Grizzly teams in a while.

Here’s to 2017, good health and a championship ring.

#WeEnnis

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