3 free agents the Grizzlies should still consider signing

By Mark Nilon | Jul 6, 2023

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - MARCH 01: Kelly Oubre Jr. #12 of the Charlotte Hornets brings the ball up court against the Phoenix Suns during their game at Spectrum Center on March 01, 2023 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images) /

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Will Barton of the Toronto Raptors looks on against the Chicago Bulls. (Photo by Mark Blinch/Getty Images) /

2. Will Barton

The additions of Marcus Smart and Derrick Rose are being heralded for many reasons, but perhaps the most notable is the fact that they are slated to provide much-needed veteran leadership to this youthful Grizzlies squad.

Will Barton could be yet another established elder statesman to bring aboard the roster.

A player who has personally opted to prioritize leadership roles in the past, which is something that was exemplified in his decision to sign with the young Toronto Raptors this past season over legitimate title-contending clubs, the 32-year-old could look at this Memphis team in a similar light, albeit one that has a better shot of embarking on a deep postseason run.

Now, while this aforementioned quality should certainly be seen as a major factor in a hypothetical signing, his on-court production should also be viewed as a desire for the Grizz to bring aboard.

Just one season prior to his rather lowly 2022-23 statistical campaign, Will Barton was one of the most trusty contributors on the Denver Nuggets, posting per-game averages of 14.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 3.9 assists while shooting 36.5 percent from distance.

Assuming last year was just a mere outlier, bringing on the vet could make for a great add both from a leadership and production standpoint.

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