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Three Reasons the Memphis Grizzlies Ended the Kobi Simmons Project

By Christian Dudley

SALT LAKE CITY, UT - MARCH 30: Kobi Simmons
SALT LAKE CITY, UT - MARCH 30: Kobi Simmons /
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MEMPHIS, TN – OCTOBER 2: Shelvin Mack #7 of the Orlando Magic handles the ball against Andrew Harrison #5 of the Memphis Grizzlies during a preseason game on October 2, 2017 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 2017 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images)
MEMPHIS, TN – OCTOBER 2: Shelvin Mack #7 of the Orlando Magic handles the ball against Andrew Harrison #5 of the Memphis Grizzlies during a preseason game on October 2, 2017 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 2017 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Opting for Another Veteran Backcourt Option

Three years ago, it would have been crazy to speak of the Memphis Grizzlies investing in their youth. Player development was a huge weakness. One former player recently discussed how the young guys were segregated from the team, and not by way of a Developmental League assignment.

Last season, the Grizzlies used their Gatorade League affiliate — the Memphis Hustle — with high frequency. From two-way contracts to call-ups to assignments, the Front Office wasted no time in utilizing the Hustle’s services. The Grizzlies officially have a player development program. It is refreshing to be able to say this without telling a lie.

With that being said, the Memphis Grizzlies must go with veteran options at the helm in 2018-19. The time is officially now. This team will be going all-out to push toward the postseason. The plan is to not place Marc Gasol and/or Mike Conley on the trade block, and rather ride the wave with the remainder of the original “Core Four.”

When Memphis was rumored to be adding Shelvin Mack, formerly of the Orlando Magic, it seemed pointless. After all, yes, it is another point guard. The backcourt was already littered at this position. However, Mack brings seven years of NBA experience to the table. The 28-year-old Butler product is far more seasoned than the youngster Simmons.

Shelvin Mack can be a facilitator and conductor of the offense. He is a tough and strong guard that is not easily pushed around on the hardwood. He has a competitive edge to his game. You know what you will get on a nightly basis from Mack. If he makes the final roster (which is no guarantee), the Memphis Grizzlies will own a great dependable point guard option deep on their bench.

Outside of the primary backup point guard role, all else is insurance. If we are being totally honest, Conley does need a great deal of insurance (playing just 12 of 82 games in 2017-18). If push came to shove, it would be a safe move to place Mack into the fire rather than depending upon Simmons to be the lead floor general. It is a tough pill to swallow if in Kobi’s shoes, but experience is really what he needs to gain in order to climb a team’s depth chart. The talent is true, but raw.

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