Memphis Grizzlies F Kyle Anderson is a perfect player for the Grizzlies grit and grind playstyle
I just wrote a post about Marc Gasol’s impact on the Grizzlies’ grit and grind playstyle in the 2010s, so forgive me if you’re tired of hearing about it. That said, no true Grizzly fan will ever tire of hearing about their team’s grit and grind playstyle.
When I say grit and grind, I’m referring to a couple of things. For starters, all Grizzlies teams in the 2010s had two things in abundance — feisty defense and a menacing offensive presence down low. And even though Kyle Anderson doesn’t necessarily meet Z-Bo level standards on the offensive end, his defensive talent is perfect for a team that looks to lead the league in steals each season.
In a league that doesn’t really abide by those standards anymore, Slow-Mo fits as a modern-day translation of the Grizzlies past. He spaces the floor in a way that gives Ja Morant more space to work in the paint. If necessary, he can get buckets down low, even if he’s now overpowering anybody.
Most of all, he’s just a great fit on this team. There may not be another team in the league that will see Kyle Anderson succeed at the same level. There also may not be another player in the league who fits the Grizzlies as well.
If Memphis wants to remain competitive in the immediate, they have to extend KA’s contract.