Memphis Grizzlies 2017/2018 Player Review: Ivan Rabb

Ivan Rabb entered the 2017/2018 season following contract issues, and high expectations, but handled it with ease. Rabb showed a lot this season, and is a cornerstone player on this team moving forward.

Rabb started in the Memphis Grizzlies G-League affiliate Memphis Hustle, and showed that he was bigger than that from the start. He and rookie Kobi Simmons were amazing this season in the G-League. Rabb even mentioned that he played four games, for the Hustle and the Grizzlies in four different states. Rabb was first class in his first season, but what he showed on the court should have Grizzlies fans excited. Rabb appeared in 36 games this season for the Grizzlies and shot 56.6 percent from the field.

Rabb’s Strength’s

Rabb entered the NBA as a good rebounder, and while he still is a solid rebounder, his mid-range game is way better. At the beginning of the season, Ivan’s mid-range game was excellent. Then, Rabb showed us his arsenal in the post. Also, Rabb is ahead of schedule on his basketball IQ in the NBA.

What Rabb needs to improve on in year two

Like many rookies this season, Rabb will have a whole off-season to improve on his weaknesses and continue to fine tune his craft. Among his weaknesses will be his lack of strength to guard physical big men in the post. Then, just being NBA ready for games night-in-out. His size overall is under the NBA center limit of 7’0, and Rabb being 6’10 has hurt him defensively. Where he lacks in size, adding muscle could help be more physical with those big men in the post.

If Rabb improves on those weaknesses..

I see Rabb being a very good big man in this league for a long time. He has the size and speed that the leagues big men are asked to be at right now. Eventually he will be asked to shoot three’s (which he can right now). With Gasol on the back end of his max contract, the Grizzlies might of found their big man for the future.