Memphis Grizzlies guard compared to NBA legend, Tim Duncan

This summer, the Memphis Grizzlies tinkered with head coach Taylor Jenkins’ roster by emphasizing complementary fits alongside the team’s current core and, equally important, veteran leadership.

And while the addition of Marcus Smart has received the bulk of attention when it comes to offseason transactions made by GM Zach Kleiman, easily one of the more under-the-radar moves from the period was the signing of Derrick Rose to a veteran’s minimum contract.

Though no longer the perennial All-Star and the league MVP he was during his prime, the decision to snatch the 34-year-old up off the free agency market was more about his potential impact as a mentor on Grizzlies centerpiece Ja Morant rather than his potential on-court contributions (though they would still be welcomed with open arms).

During an August 25 appearance on the No Chill Podcast, NBA journeyman and former Memphis wing Danny Green dished on the type of leadership skills Rose brings to the table and compared him to a legend of the game in Tim Duncan, a man the sharpshooting veteran got to know quite well during his eight-year stint with the San Antonio Spurs.

Ex-Grizzlies wing links Derrick Rose to Tim Duncan in terms of leadership style

"“Derrick is the veteran you need, he’s smart. But I think he’s more passive or a little quieter. I see him as a [Tim Duncan],” Green said. “People would think Timmy is quiet but he actually talked and spoke and I think Derrick is one of those guys.”"

Since his pivot from being a franchise cornerstone to a savvy rotational veteran, Rose has earned ample praise for his contributions in his new role.

Just last season, while serving as a member of the New York Knicks, star power forward Julius Randle was quoted as saying the point guard has had “just as much if not more of an impact vocally as a leader for us” and that “his impact is huge.”

Heading into his first season with the Grizzlies, many are hoping said impact can now rub off on this youthful team and, specifically, Morant.

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