Grizzlies start, bench, cut: David Roddy, Luke Kennard, Ziaire Williams

Start: David Roddy

Though he may be the least experienced of the three players being mentioned here today, Roddy seems to make the most sense for the Grizzlies’ starting small forward position.

While the absence of Morant may have some believing they could use more of an offensive boost within the first five and, thus, may want to lean toward the scoring-savvy veteran Luke Kennard for the nod, the presence of rising star Bane (21.5 points per game on 40.8 percent shooting from deep last season) serving as their main point of attack, along with the help of star Jaren Jackson Jr. and the never shy Smart will provide the team with plenty of weapons.

Instead, what Jenkins’ starting unit could use is an all-around steady presence who can bring added energy and defensive intensity.

Roddy seemingly has the potential to provide exactly that.

Though it took some time for the tweener-forward to come into his own during his rookie year in 2022-23, by the time the end of the season rolled around it was evident both from the eye test as well as the counting stats that he had grown more comfortable to the NBA game.

From March 11 through April 9’s regular-season finale, Roddy saw himself posting averages of 8.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.4 assists on 36.4 percent shooting from deep and, during this span, sported the team’s seventh-best offensive rating (116.1) and sixth-best net rating (2.0) out of those who played 600 or more minutes on the year.

Already showing signs of even more progress within his play during this year’s Summer League where he averaged 13.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game on 47.6 percent shooting from the field, the 22-year-old looks primed to take another step in the right direction coming into his sophomore campaign.

Members of the coaching staff already are voicing their excitement about what may be coming for the forward and so, too, should Grizzlies fans.