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3 not-so-obvious Grizzlies that will make or break a title run

By Mark Nilon

TORONTO, ON - DECEMBER 29: Taylor Jenkins, head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies looks on during second half of their NBA game against the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena on December 29, 2022 in Toronto, Canada. 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 Cole Burston/Getty Images)
TORONTO, ON - DECEMBER 29: Taylor Jenkins, head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies looks on during second half of their NBA game against the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena on December 29, 2022 in Toronto, Canada. 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 Cole Burston/Getty Images) /
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Following a slew of savvy offseason moves and several key rotational additions, the Memphis Grizzlies are heading into the 2023-24 season with hopes of embarking on a deep postseason run. Some analysts and media pundits are even going as far as to pencil the club in as a serious contender for the 2024 Larry O’Brien Trophy.

However, in order for them to achieve such lofty goals, many things will have to play out just right, and, naturally, players will have to perform at their absolute best simply to give the club any semblance of a chance of claiming ultimate glory.

When it comes to Taylor Jenkins’ current assortment of talent, it’s easy to see just how well-rounded they are. From rotational headliners such as Ja Morant to strong mentors like Derrick Rose, the Grizzlies are chock full of noteworthy names who are capable of having an impact on overall team success in a myriad of ways.

That said, there are a few not-so-obvious individuals (i.e. those not named Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., or Desmond Bane) who have the potential to either make or break Memphis’ title aspirations with their respective play.

Grizzlies who will make or break a title run in 2023-24

3. Marcus Smart

The Grizzlies are coming into the 2023-24 campaign with superstar centerpiece Ja Morant slated to be suspended for the first 25 games as a result of yet another firearm incident.

Though it’s more than evident that replacing the guard in full is a fool’s errand, this summer GM Zach Kleiman took part in a multi-team blockbuster transaction that landed them trusty veteran Marcus Smart from the Boston Celtics to hold down the fort in his absence and, upon his return to action, to serve as a crucial presence within the rotation on both ends of the ball and on the sidelines.

Aside from bringing stability to the starting one for the first couple of months of the upcoming campaign, the 29-year-old is coming to Grind City with ample postseason experience attached to his already impressive resume, as he’s suited up for an astonishing 108 games in the playoffs, including five conference finals visits and an NBA Finals appearance, throughout his nine-year career.

With his specific on-court intangibles coupled with his exciting level of familiarity under the bright lights and harsh pressures of the postseason, the arrival of Smart is something this coaching staff is hoping will help the young Grizzlies lift their level of efficiency and enhance mental fortitude heading into an incredibly promising campaign.

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