Memphis Grizzlies: The sky is the limit for Deyonta Davis

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Deyonta Davis made his presence known to a national audience on MLK Day against the Lakers. It may only be the beginning of a special career for him.

For much of his time with the Memphis Grizzlies, Deyonta Davis has polarized people with his play. There have been nights where he looks disengaged and disinterested, frustrating both fans and teammates alike. On the other hand, he has games where he showcases incredible two-way potential as a starting center in the NBA.

Against the Lakers on MLK Day, it was a game where Deyonta Davis was incredible. In just 14 minutes of play, he tallied 10 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 game-altering dunks.

If you truly want to grasp Deyonta Davis’ potential, look no further than Marc Gasol. Last year, Gasol spoke extremely highly of him.

As everyone knows, Marc Gasol has a long history of getting frustrated with younger players. When Gasol speaks this highly of a younger player, you know not to take it likely. If he says that a guy has the tools to carry a franchise, you know that he means it.

All the Tools

Over the the last year, Deyonta Davis has consistently flashed his ability on the defensive end. Time and time again, players have driven the lane only to have their layup spiked into a ten foot grave by Davis (he dug many graves for the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday). His instincts and sense of timing cannot be taught, and it makes him a force to be reckoned with in the paint. When switched onto guards and smaller players, he is able to move his feet and defend well in space.

Davis always projected as a solid defender in the NBA. However, he has started to show some versatility on the offensive end, which wouldn’t be possible without a more aggressive mindset. His usage has significantly increased this season as compared to his rookie season. He has also already taken more jump shots from 10-16 feet than he did all of last season. Even when he catches the ball in the post, you can clearly see that Davis has more confidence and determination to score than he did last year.

Incredible Potential

The key for Deyonta Davis going forward, as Ron Tillery noted, is consistency. As Marc Gasol himself said, Davis has all of the tools to be a great big man in the NBA, both on the offensive and defensive end. However, can he put it together on a consistent basis?

Related Story: Deyonta Davis, starting center of the future?

Regardless, it goes without saying that Deyonta Davis has the potential to be special. If his focus improves and his jumper becomes a tad more consistent, he could very well be the Memphis Grizzlies’ starting center of the future.

There is one thing that is definitely for certain: Jordan Clarkson will probably not be calling Deyonta Davis to hang out anytime soon… Besides, Davis probably already blocked his number.

Ba-dum tiss.