3 storylines to watch in the Grizzlies’ season opener vs. Cavaliers

After an action-packed offseason, the Memphis Grizzlies‘ primary starters returned to play in the preseason, playing a pretty dominant slate of games. When most of the main players were in the game, the Grizzlies dominated — that said, their 3-3 record won’t turn any heads, as they were only at full strength for three contests.

In those games, however, we learned a lot about the team.

It became clear that Desmond Bane had taken a step forward into the starting lineup, which is something that seemed inevitable based on his increased role in Summer League play this year. Kyle Anderson moved to the bench with JJJ back at full health, which came as a surprise, as Dillon Brooks is out nursing a hand injury.

What can we learn from the Grizzlies’ season opener that we didn’t already from preseason play?

Say what you want about preseason play — it doesn’t give you the full picture of what will go on during the regular season. Some players will see reduced minutes for no particular reason, while the rotation is scattered and experimental.

With the regular season in full effect tonight, Taylor Jenkins will only play lineups that he’s serious about. Any strange rotations that flopped during the preseason will not likely make a return in the regular season.

Today, I’m going to cover three storylines to watch during the Grizzlies’ preseason opener.