3 potential Memphis Grizzlies starting lineups without Dillon Brooks

The Memphis Grizzlies could use a lineup involving a reserve player to kick off the season

Admittedly, at this point in the article, we’re moving toward the less likely starting lineups. The last two are entirely possible — this one may require an injury or a drastic change in coaching philosophy by Taylor Jenkins. Here it is.

• Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, John Konchar, Jaren Jackson Jr., Steven Adams

The only difference between this lineup and the last one is the replacement of Kyle Anderson by John Konchar. Granted, Konchar is generally considered a reserve player and as a former undrafted free agent, he still has a long way to go in the NBA, but this could potentially make sense for the Grizzlies. Here’s why.

Last season, Memphis had every player between the shooting guard and power forward spots sliding back and forth between positions. It worked, but to a certain extend, players looked much more comfortable in their natural positions.

If Jenkins elects to keep Kyle Anderson at a more natural spot behind Jaren Jackson Jr. at the power forward position, he may send Konchar, who fits better at small forward, into the starting lineup in Dillon Brooks’ absence.

If you didn’t watch a lot of Grizzlies basketball last season, you may not even know who Konchar is. “Konch,” in my honest opinion, is one of the most underrated players in the league. He shoots over 39% from the three-point line on his career, and when he’s on the floor, he always makes an impact.

There isn’t a single player in the NBA who gives better minutes off of the bench than Konchar.

Say what you want about his natural basketball ability — nobody will outwork John Konchar. This lineup would likely generate strong defense and a handful of steals while shooting respectably from long-range.