Memphis Grizzlies: Where should the blame fall?

MEMPHIS, TN - MAY 31: General Manager of the Memphis Grizzlies, Chris Wallace introduces David Fizdale as head coach during a press conference on May 31, 2016 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2016 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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DENVER, CO – NOVEMBER 24: Marc Gasol /

Case for Marc Gasol

No one could blame Marc Gasol for being upset. In a close home game against one of the league’s worst teams, Gasol was forced to watch his club suffer the loss when he could’ve helped.

If the rumors of Gasol using the “him or me” approach with the front office are true, that’s straight bologna. There are few players in the league with that power, and he’s not one of them. It’s also a straight prima donna move.

Granted, Marc Gasol hasn’t played well up to his standards during this stretch. According to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, he has a net rating of minus-13.7 during the skid; the Grizzlies have been plus-3.1 when he sits.

The team shouldn’t be better without their star player. PERIOD!

Case against Marc Gasol

While that stat may hold true, the Grizzlies also outscore opponents by 10 points per 100 possessions when Gasol shares the floor with Chandler Parsons and Tyreke Evans. Simply put, surround Gasol with actual NBA talent.

The “him or me” approach story surely is tasty, but Gasol does insist that he didn’t tell the front office to fire Fizdale and that he was shocked of the decision.

If Gasol’s comments are true, the only thing to blame on his end is his game. Without Conley, he should be stepping up. However, it’s a team effort.

Blame: 10 percent.

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