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4 Bold Predictions for the 2018-19 Memphis Grizzlies Season

By Christian Dudley

ORLANDO, FL - OCTOBER 10: Chandler Parsons #25 of the Memphis Grizzlies shoots the ball against the Orlando Magic during a pre-season game on October 10, 2018 at Amway Center in Orlando, Florida. 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 2018 NBAE (Photo by Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images)
ORLANDO, FL - OCTOBER 10: Chandler Parsons #25 of the Memphis Grizzlies shoots the ball against the Orlando Magic during a pre-season game on October 10, 2018 at Amway Center in Orlando, Florida. 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 2018 NBAE (Photo by Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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ORLANDO, FL – OCTOBER 10: Kyle Anderson #1 of the Memphis Grizzlies shoots the ball against the Orlando Magic during a pre-season game on October 10, 2018 at Amway Center in Orlando, Florida. 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 2018 NBAE (Photo by Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images)
ORLANDO, FL – OCTOBER 10: Kyle Anderson #1 of the Memphis Grizzlies shoots the ball against the Orlando Magic during a pre-season game on October 10, 2018 at Amway Center in Orlando, Florida. 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 2018 NBAE (Photo by Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images) /

The Rise of “Slo Mo”

Ed Wilson: “In thinking of a bold prediction for the Memphis Grizzlies, I have stumbled on the one that compelled me most. Looking at the prospects at hand, Kyle Anderson AKA “Slo Mo” having a breakout season is one of great importance. As mentioned on Beale Street Bears before, Kyle Anderson’s tenure will likely be the deciding factor for the current Memphis Grizzlies squad.

Kyle Anderson is not only one of Memphis shiny new toys, he is also their biggest catch in free-agency since the signing of Chandler Parsons. As such, the pressure to see him thrive is fairly high.

Anderson was a high-usage guy at UCLA so he is familiar with being relied upon heavily, and scoring is a part of that. In college, he averaged over 13 points per game along with almost eight rebounds and five assists over his two years there.

Kyle Anderson is at Home with Memphis Grizzlies in Tennessee. light. Related Story

Kyle Anderson’s skill set and style of play will benefit both Mike Conley and Marc Gasol’s game so much that he will not only be on the floor over 30 minutes per game, but he will be the facilitator in a lot of instances. This will improve his usage rating and production line.

With Anderson being 6’9,” it is a lot like Draymond Green in terms of forwards who facilitate and handle the ball at the rate of a starting point guard, plus coming with great defense.

Even without the ability to stretch the floor, that archetype is a threat because they can still be the control center of the offense that makes plays. This team is expected to rely heavily on such skills from a forward this season.

I can see Kyle finishing the season with a stat line of 14 points, six rebounds, and five assists per game on 45% shooting from the field while helping the Memphis Grizzlies become a solid contender to make the playoffs. My bold predictio is that Kyle Anderson wins Most Improved Player of the Year as a result of his expanded role.

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