As we wrap up our season review, let’s take a look at Wayne Selden. Does the late-season acquisition have a place in the Memphis Grizzlies’ future?
Wayne Selden Jr. has tantalizing 3-and-D potential. At 6’5″ and 230 pounds, he has good size and athleticism at shooting guard. If his skill-set ever catches up to his physical tools, he could be a special player. He went undrafted out of Kansas but was invited to the Grizzlies training camp last fall. Selden failed to make the roster, but joined the Iowa Energy, the Memphis Grizzlies’ D-League affiliate. He signed a 10-day contract with the New Orleans Pelicans, where he started all three games he played. Wayne signed a multi-year contract with Memphis on March 18th. He played well down the stretch of the season, especially in Tony Allen’s absence. A solid playoff effort has many fans excited about his potential.
Offense
His offensive game is still a work in progress. At this stage in his development, he shouldn’t be expected to create for himself or others. He mostly plays off the ball, where he can cut to the rim or spot-up from distance. His 3-point shot is rather inconsistent, but he has good mechanics with his shooting form. He’s not super quick but Selden is a good athlete who can finish strong at the rim.
Wayne’s outside stroke is key to his potential as a role player. When his shot improves, he’ll be able to finish in the lane by attacking closeouts and quick dribble drives. All the tools are there for him to be a successful NBA player.
Offensive Grade: C
Defense
While his offense improves, defense is where Wayne Selden will earn minutes. With a freakish 6’10” wingspan and a strong frame, he has the physical tools to be a plus defender. Selden lacked the awareness and focus to be a lockdown defender coming out of Kansas, although the effort seemed to be there in the NBA.
While in the D-League he sharpened his fundamentals and awareness on the defensive end. He made a great impression on many scouts and coaches around the league with his defensive improvement. Wayne really impressed Grizzlies and fans with his defense on Kawhi Leonard at the end of the regular season and in the playoffs.
Defensive Grade: A-
Final Grade: B+
Wayne Selden entered this season with little to no expectations. The physical tools have always been there, but many questioned if he would be able to bring everything together. He’s not Steph Curry from deep, but he has shown the ability to hit the open 3-pointer. He’s not a shot creator, but he attacks the rim with authority when he gets in the lane.
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The highlight of Selden’s season is the defense on Kawhi Leonard in the playoffs and their final meeting in the regular season. Kawhi is a legit MVP Candidate and “robot,” according to Coach Fizdale. Making every shot difficult for him is a tall task when Leonard makes everything look simple.
After flashing 3-and-D potential, he now needs to become more consistent in his overall game. His outside shooting has plenty room for improvement and a tighter handle would make his dribble drives more effective. He also could use his long arms to get more deflections and his athleticism to grab more rebounds. But as an undrafted free-agent, he has made a great start to his career.