Memphis Grizzlies: 3 Takeaways from thrilling preseason win vs Bucks
By Reed Chapman
Kenneth Lofton Jr. just might be the most NBA-ready rookie on the team
Another bright spot from the Grizzlies’ hard-fought victory was the play of Kenneth Lofton Jr., especially on the offensive side of the ball.
There were questions coming into the preseason on whether Junior’s game would translate when going up against bigger NBA veterans rather than rookies in Summer League, but he showed tonight that he could truly get a bucket against almost anybody.
He backed down seasoned NBA veterans like Brook Lopez, Serge Ibaka, and Bobby Portis all night, as he tallied 17 points on a very efficient 6-8 from the field, shot 1-2 from beyond the arch, and also added 4 rebounds and 3 assists.
He looked extremely comfortable scoring the ball from every area on the court, and it is extremely fun to watch.
The problem with Kenneth Lofton that may not allow him minutes right away is the problems he has rebounding the basketball at times, especially when bigger bodies are on the court. He has trouble getting off the court to snag a board, and was caught not boxing out at times, which also happened in Summer League.
All in all though, Kenneth Lofton Jr. had a very nice game, and I’m excited to see if Coach Jenkins is able to fit him in with the regular guys when they hopefully return Monday night against the Magic.