Projecting lineups for the Memphis Grizzlies once Dillon Brooks returns

The heart and soul of the Memphis Grizzlies, Dillon Brooks, is expected to return to action soon.  We haven’t seen Brooks play since the Grizzlies was eliminated from the 2021 NBA playoffs by the Utah Jazz.

There is some good news on the horizon, however. It seems like Brooks could be cleared to play any day now.

The guard/forward was recently sent to Southaven to participate in a simulated game, meaning we could be seeing Brooks back in a Grizzlies uniform very soon.

What will the Memphis Grizzlies rotation look like once Dillon Brooks returns from injury?

The easiest lineup to project is the starting lineup, which should look similar to what we’ve seen every game this season, save for De’Anthony Melton. You can expect the starting five to be comprised of the following players:

• Ja Morant, point guard
• Desmond Bane, shooting guard
• Dillon Brooks, small forward
• Jaren Jackson, Jr., power forward
• Steven Adams, center

That looks like a starting five that can compete for a spot in the playoffs in the Western Conference.

With Melton likely sliding to the bench, the makeup of the second unit could look a little bit different than what we’ve previously seen.

Tyus Jones is likely to remain the backup to Morant and Melton slides in to relieve Brooks.

Kyle Anderson will continue to fill in for Jackson once he needs a break or gets in foul trouble. Expect Ziaire Williams to continue receiving playing time on the wing to fill in for Bane.

Xavier Tillman, Sr. has mostly been the one to fill in for Adams, with a very occasional appearance from Brandon Clarke. The second unit will likely be comprised of these players:

• Tyus Jones, point guard
• De’Anthony Melton, shooting guard
• Ziaire Williams, small forward
• Kyle Anderson, power forward
• Xavier Tillman, Sr., center

All eyes will be on the Grizzlies to see how well they acquiesce with players shifting roles and minutes being redistributed.