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3 biggest issues Grizzlies must address during training camp

By Mark Nilon

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - JANUARY 22: Head coach Taylor Jenkins of the Memphis Grizzlies listens to Ja Morant #12 during the first half of the NBA game against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center on January 22, 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the Grizzlies 112-110. 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 Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
PHOENIX, ARIZONA - JANUARY 22: Head coach Taylor Jenkins of the Memphis Grizzlies listens to Ja Morant #12 during the first half of the NBA game against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center on January 22, 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the Grizzlies 112-110. 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 Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /
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Desmond Bane of the Memphis Grizzlies and David Roddy. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)
Desmond Bane of the Memphis Grizzlies and David Roddy. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images) /

1. Wing position

Though the departure of Dillon Brooks this offseason has been heralded as ultimately a positive happening for the Grizzlies, as a result of his sign-and-trade to the Houston Rockets, the team now finds itself void of any clear replacement option for him at the wing position.

All offseason, there has been a continual conversation about what might be the best way of addressing this glaring positional need, and, with camp set to open in just over two weeks, it appears the most realistic course of action will be to simply try to promote from within.

Should they ultimately lean in this direction, there seem to be several different contenders for the starting three gig, though all seem to have serious concerns attached to them.

David Roddy, arguably the most ideal candidate for the role of those currently rostered, has the defensive tenacity and on-court intensity that quickly endeared him to the Grind City faithful during his rookie campaign, though currently does not possess a consistent perimeter game (shot just 30.7 percent from distance) and lacks experience, both of which are presumably vital attributes for this championship-hungry squad.

Luke Kennard could also be seen as an option worthy of consideration, as he absolutely shined last season with the Grizzlies when found in the first five unit (17.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, 3.0 assists on 60 percent shooting from distance), though his change-of-pace brand of production might make him more valuable to the team as a sixth man.

All the other noteworthy names tabbed as options like Desmond Bane (small stature), Ziaire Williams (inconsistent), and Jake LaRavia (unproven) also seem to have their fair share of cons attached to them.

Should none wind up standing out as being so much as a serviceable option for the team’s starting small forward spot over the next month, then perhaps GM Zach Kleiman and company should consider the idea of looking for one on the trade market, as there are bound to be a number of quality options that could be had at the right price.

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