Memphis Grizzlies: Centers to target in free agency

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 04: Dwight Howard #39 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts during the first half against the Miami Heat in Game Three of the 2020 NBA Finals at AdventHealth Arena at ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on October 04, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, 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. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 04: Dwight Howard #39 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts during the first half against the Miami Heat in Game Three of the 2020 NBA Finals at AdventHealth Arena at ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on October 04, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, 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. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /
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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 28: Tristan Thompson #13 of the Cleveland Cavaliers reacts against the New Orleans Pelicans during the second half at the Smoothie King Center on February 28, 2020 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 28: Tristan Thompson #13 of the Cleveland Cavaliers reacts against the New Orleans Pelicans during the second half at the Smoothie King Center on February 28, 2020 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images) /

2. Tristan Thompson

Thompson just finished his ninth season with the Cleveland Cavaliers. He’s been through thick and thin with the Cavs — from their days as one of the worst teams in the league, to winning a championship and going to the NBA Finals regularly, then back to being one of the worst teams in the league.

Thompson posted a career-high in scoring last season, averaging 12 points and 10 rebounds per game. Along with getting more scoring opportunities, Thompson developed a 3-point shot and expanded his offensive game beyond putbacks and pick-and-rolls. He shot 39 percent from three for the season in a small sample size (9 of 23).

With the improvement of his offensive game and already a solid defender and rebounder Thompson would be a good addition to the Grizzlies roster as a backup and role player.