Memphis Grizzlies: 5 things we’ve learned so far in Ja Morant’s absence

If Tyus Jones keeps this up, he’ll be in for a huge pay day in the off-season

I’ve highlighted this before, but Tyus Jones, who will be an unrestricted free agent at the conclusion of the season, is directly benefiting from his increased playing time and role as a starter.

In these past four games, he’s averaging 9 points, 7.5 assists, 4.25 rebounds, 1.75 steals per game and just one turnover.

That’s the kind of production that will get Jones paid one way or another by the Grizzlies or another team in the NBA.

The team’s bench is deeper than Taylor Jenkins realized

Great play from reserves has been a particular bright spot for this team in recent games. We’ve seen meaningful minutes and meaningful production from guys like Santi Aldama, Killian Tillie and Xavier Tillman.

These players have only elevated their value. Hopefully Jenkins will find ways to utilize all of the talent that typically just sits idly on the bench. If there’s no sensible way to utilize these players, perhaps they can be used as trade pieces to provide an upgrade at the starting center position.