Memphis Grizzlies: Desmond Bane needs to be a full-time starter

Where does Bane fit into the Memphis Grizzlies’ lineup?

This is where things get tricky. Nobody wants to see Dillon Brooks go to the bench; he has done everything asked of him so far this year. But with Bane breathing down his neck, Brooks has to step up before he loses his spot in the starting lineup permanently.

Bane started the last game, but it’s hard to say whether or not this is a full-time switch for the Grizzlies. It could have simply been a preferred matchup against the Washington Wizards.

But if it’s not a full-time choice, it should be. I’m not necessarily saying that Bane is the better overall player quite yet, but his specific skillset is huge for this Grizzlies team at this point in their season. He’s able to maintain a defensive presence while doing something that nobody else can seem to do on this team: shoot the ball well.

The Grizzlies have gone to small-ball for much of the year without JJJ in the lineup and I don’t think they should stop now. Bane needs to start and get significant minutes for this Grizzlies team to make a playoff push.

Dillon Brooks is still a key contributor and can still make a big impact from the bench, but it might be Bane’s time from now on.