Memphis Grizzlies Throwback: 4 best role players in ‘Core 4’ era

Tony Allen Mike Conley Marc Gasol Zach Randolph Memphis Grizzlies (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)
Tony Allen Mike Conley Marc Gasol Zach Randolph Memphis Grizzlies (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)
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MEMPHIS, TN – APRIL 11: Tony Allen
MEMPHIS, TN – APRIL 11: Tony Allen

The Memphis Grizzlies had some great help in the ‘Core 4’ era. Who were some of the best role players of that era? Are any still on this team?

The ‘Core 4’ era was a memorable for Memphis Grizzlies fans, to say the least. Zach Randolph and Tony Allen became the heart and soul of this team, lifting everyone’s spirits with their elite play on either end of the court. Randolph, Mike Conley and Marc Gasol have been All-Star-caliber players who have given the fans larger-than-life performances.

However, they obviously needed help along the way for their seven-year playoff run.

Usually this help comes from “role players.” You know, the players who have a particular skill that just helps the team. Some players are defensive specialists tasked with making key stops on the less glamorous end of the floor. Other role players simply need to go out and make buckets. Some players initiate the offense when the lead floor general is off the court. Then, there are some players that have to do the dirty work.

In the ‘Core 4’ era, who were some of the best role players? Who helped their cornerstones ensure a trip to the playoffs every year?

Let’s take a journey for this wonderful throwback Thursday.