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

Portis, Connaughton deliver shooting, experience to Memphis Grizzlies

So, why should the Grizzlies pursue these two players in particular?

Memphis Grizzlies Head Coach Taylor Jenkins could be reunited with Connaughton, whom he coached when he served as an assistant in Milwaukee from 2018-2019. In Memphis, Portis would be as close as he could get in the NBA to his hometown of Little Rock (135 miles across I-40).

Portis is dynamic and played like a starter last season for Milwaukee. He has a mentality and persona that matches the Grizzlies— he’s tough and willing to make whatever sacrifices necessary to win. He can knock down three-point shots, rebound really well, set screens, and play hard-nosed defense.

Portis averaged 14.6 PPG, 9.1 RPG on 47.9 FG% in 28.2 MPG last season. He played as a starter for 59 games in the absence of an injured Brook Lopez, establishing himself as a key component for the Bucks.

Connaughton may be a little redundant with the Grizzlies, as he’s kind of a juiced-up version of John Konchar. But, his ability to score (9.9 PPG), knock down three-pointers consistently (39.5%), and take care of the ball (0.5 turnovers per game) make him too hard to pass up if he’s attainable.

You could imagine a bench lineup of De’Anthony Melton, Pat Connaughton, Ziaire Williams, Brandon Clarke and Bobby Portis if the team was able to somehow sign both of these Milwaukee players.

But, if it came down to acquiring just one of these two, Portis is the clear favorite and fills a need. Come playoff time he could even start in lieu of Steven Adams if necessary, using his more athletic frame to keep up with the Karl-Anthony Towns’ of the world.