Memphis Grizzlies: Is this the best version of Grit 'N' Grind?

This Memphis Grizzlies are like 2015-16 Atlanta Hawks team that could go 10-12 deep with versatile players. Grit ‘N’ Grind isn’t dead; it’s even scarier.

General Manager Chris Wallace has done a good job getting the right kind of players Coach Fizdale wants in his new and improve “Grit ‘N’ Grind” system. Everyone outside of Memphis believes the “Grit ‘N’ Grind” era is done now that Zach Randolph and Tony Allen have departed, but that’s false. New additions like Ben McLemore, Tyreke Evans, Dillion Brooks, and Mario Chalmers have revamped the Memphis Grizzlies’ philosophy, bringing more speed, youth and shooting. After a 5-2 start to this season, we can see all the progress Coach Fizdale has made for more “pace and space” on the team.

Evolution of Grit ‘N’ Grind

Returning players such as James Ennis, Chandler Parsons and Brandan Wright are performing better than last year. Technically Parsons can’t play any worse, but let’s not even get into that. He had 24 points versus Houston the other night, so things are progressing well for one of the wealthiest bench players in the league.

JaMychal Green looked to be picking up right where he left off last season before suffering an ankle injury against the Pelicans. He’ll most likely re-enter the starting lineup once he returns.

The biggest bonus thus has to be the youth movement finally making it to court. Fans and critics have been wondering for years when Memphis will finally infuse some youth in this organization — especially with so many busted picks in years past. Andrew Harrison, Jarell Martin, Wayne Selden and rookie Dillion Brooks have given fans hope that times are changing. Memphis might finally have some draft picks that can make it to a second contract.

Harrison is still having issues with his jump shot, but he has good size, defends and makes good decisions with the ball in his hands. He has “Marcus Smart” potential written all over him, if he works on his jumper and stays consistent. Martin is finally looking like a NBA player. It took two seasons and possibly getting cut for him to eventually wake up. He has good ball skills, and Fizdale believes he can guard multiple positions. Let’s not rush and call him Draymond Green yet, but he’s a polished forward that’s built to thrive in this new run-and-gun system.

The rookie Brooks has the entire city supporting him right now with his performances thus far. He has faced the likes of Klay Thompson, Wesley Matthews and James Harden (TWICE) yet the rookie didn’t blink once. He has great offensive tools, defensive instincts and athleticism. Most of all though, he’s not scared to make the big play.

Selden has yet to play this season, but his previous playoff and summer league performances have been outstanding. He looks like the perfect 3-and-D wing to pair with Brooks for the new NBA.

The Present AND Future Looks Bright

The team is on a great start to the season. Barring any injury, the rest of the West should be on notice. Let’s see how long it takes Memphis to get to 20 wins though. If Memphis reaches 20 wins before they reach 10 losses, fans can go ahead and book tickets to the FedEx Forum in late April. The young players on the roster are flowing ,and as time passes, one can only expect for them to get better. This is going to be one heck of team once the roster is whole.

Memphis Grizzlies: Is this the best version of Grit ‘N’ Grind?

By Marquez Brown | Oct 31, 2017

This Memphis Grizzlies are like 2015-16 Atlanta Hawks team that could go 10-12 deep with versatile players. Grit ‘N’ Grind isn’t dead; it’s even scarier.

Evolution of Grit ‘N’ Grind

The Present AND Future Looks Bright