Memphis Grizzlies: Ben McLemore finding his groove?

Over the past few games, Ben McLemore has found his groove from the field. Is he close to fulfilling his role for the Memphis Grizzlies?

Ever since my co-expert, Nathan Chester, emphatically called Ben McLemore the “worst player for the Memphis Grizzlies,” the shooting guard has come to life.

What a coincidence!

Since the column, McLemore has found a rhythm from the field, as he’s averaging 14.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.8 steals over the past five games. In addition, he’s shooting 43.5 percent (10-23) from deep.

Take that for data, Nathan!

For real though, this is an interesting development for the Grizzlies. They signed him to be the starting shooting guard next to Mike Conley and Marc Gasol. Though his career in Sacramento was disappointing, in Memphis, many people believed he could turn his career around. Until now, there was no sign of promise — the story of his career.

Before his five-game stretch, McLemore might have been “the worst player on the Grizzlies,” as he was averaging six points a game on 32.3 percent shooting and didn’t do anything positive on the court.

Can McLemore sustain this run? Could he find a role on this team beyond next season?

What he’s done right

The easy way to put it is extremely simple: McLemore is hitting his shots and is looking like he knows what’s going on on the basketball court.

McLemore is indeed hitting his shots, and that was clearly one of his tasks as he signed with this team. However, the main issue with McLemore has always been the other stuff. What else does he do?

The reason why he’s been unplayable this season is because he can’t do much besides shoot. Right now, he’s flipping the narrative. Though his 3-point shot has been money, he’s finding his way to the goal and finishing either at the line or at the rim.

In addition, McLemore has been finding other ways to be efficient besides scoring. He’s had a nose for the basketball whether it’s on the glass or on the defensive end. His rebounding and steals numbers over the past few games are promising, as both skills are necessary to thrive as a NBA wing.

Ben McLemore’s rise in production could easily be tied to his efficient 3-point shooting. However, he’s producing on the court in multiple areas, which in turn has led to more playing time.

Finding his role?

The Memphis Grizzlies are stuck with Ben McLemore. They tried to test the trade market for him, but no one was willing to take on the extra year in his contract. Not to mention, his production prior to the trade deadline was nonexistent.

Right now, the major key for McLemore is to find consistency. He’s had multiple stretches in his career where he looks like a rotational player, but he can’t sustain it. McLemore must continue this level of production for the remainder of the season and use it as momentum for next season.

If this version of Ben McLemore shows up next year, it’ll certainly help the Grizzlies climb back in the playoff race — especially when you factor in Mike Conley’s return, Tyreke Evans possibly re-signing and a top-five pick on the way.

McLemore has played exceptionally well as of late, and though it’s not translating to wins, it’s a welcoming development for a team looking for some glimmer of positivity.

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