NBA Free Agency: Memphis Grizzlies should target pair of Milwaukee backups

The Memphis Grizzlies are about to embark on one of the most exciting offseason in franchise history, ripe with countless possibilities thanks to a historic season, financial flexibility, and the star power of Ja Morant.

Free agency negotiations can begin June 30 at 5 p.m. CT, which will be here quickly. It’s time to start planning some scenarios and possible free agent targets for the Grizzlies.

Two of the team’s own key free agents, Tyus Jones and Kyle Anderson, are free to sign with any team this offseason. Many insiders and experts think there’s a good chance that one or both will be gone to pursue an expanded role with other teams. That’ll open up some cap room and roster spots if they both leave.

Memphis Grizzlies should value experience in 2022 NBA Free Agency

One of the biggest pain points during the playoffs (besides injuries/illness) was the lack of experience on the roster. The Grizzlies are incredibly young and it showed in their inability to close out games vs the Warriors in round two.

It’s going to be an even bigger problem if two of the three oldest players on the team are on their way out (Jones, Anderson).

How do you fix that? One obvious way is to get a little older and a little wiser in free agency. I would be looking at players who are younger than 30 with deep playoff experience, or even championship experience.

The Memphis Grizzlies can do that by taking a look at free agents from teams like the Phoenix Suns and Milwaukee Bucks— two teams with recent Finals experience.

These stipulations would cull the list to Deandre Ayton (RFA), Aaron Holiday (RFA), Elfrid Payton (UFA), Bismack Biyombo (UFA), Pat Connaughton (PO), Bobby Portis (PO), Thanasis Antetokounmpo (PO), Jordan Nwora (RFA), Jevon Carter (UFA), and Lindell Wiggington (RFA).