Memphis Grizzlies: James Ennis capitalizing on fast breaks

James Ennis has provided great offensive efficiency for the Memphis Grizzlies by taking good shots and getting out in transition for uncontested layups.

The Memphis Grizzlies have never been a team who thrives in transition, but this year has been different. After 11 games, the Grizzlies are currently fourth in the league averaging 14.5 fast break points per game. This has been a huge increase from last year’s average of 10 fast break points per game last season. This increase can be huge during the season and can mean the difference between wins and losses.

A big reason for this increase is James Ennis. The starting small forward is a player that gets out in transition and has been incredibly efficient finishing his opportunities in transition. 36.9 percent of Ennis’ offensive possessions are in transition, where he’s averaging 3.3 points per game. He’s scoring 1.38 points per possession in transition, which puts him in the 84th percentile in the league.

James Ennis’ offensive efficiency is huge for the Grizzlies, who will take all the offense that they can get. Ennis has shot well from deep this season, but his incredible efficiency this year is due to him getting out in transition and getting easy buckets. He is currently averaging six field goal attempts per game, making 56 percent of them. In addition, he’s been efficient from deep — 39 percent on two 3-point attempts per game.

Game clips

The first clip is from their last game against Portland. As you watch the position unfold, keep your eye on Ennis. After the block by Dillon Brooks, Ennis takes off down the court before they have even secured the ball. Jarell Martin is able to fight for the ball and get it to Brooks, who gets it to Ennis all by himself.

The second clip is also from the game with Portland. In this clip, Tyreke Evans blocks a shot, and you can see Ennis sprinting past Evan Turner as if his life depended on it. He gets a great pass from Mario Chalmers for the easy finish.

The third clip is from the Grizzlies’ first game against the Rockets. On this play, James Harden attempts a 3-pointer while being defended by Ennis. As he shoots, he feels he’s fouled, and Ennis takes off up court. Marc Gasol is able to grab the ball and throw a touchdown to Ennis.

This last clip is taken from the game with the Warriors. Ennis is guarding Kevin Durant, and after a 3-point attempt, he leaks out for an easy pass from Conley off of a long rebound.

Next: 3 takeaways from win in Portland

These plays don’t seem like much, but they can be the difference in winning and losing. Ennis scored four easy points for the Grizzlies in Portland in a tight game because of hustle and risk-taking. Ennis has been an underrated offensive weapon for the Memphis Grizzlies this season. He has been able to contribute easy points, which makes a huge difference for the team.