Grizzlies youngster could ‘surprise us most’ in 2023-24

If it weren’t for their vacancy at the starting wing position, one could seriously make the argument that, when fully intact, the Memphis Grizzlies have the best first-five unit in the Western Conference.

From rostering established All-Stars like Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. along with rising stud Desmond Bane to the return of their highly underrated pivot Steven Adams, Taylor Jenkins’ starting lineup seems to possess strong firepower in virtually all areas…except for the small forward spot.

Since the departure of long-tenured starter Dillon Brooks via sign-and-trade back in early July, fans and media pundits alike have pondered on the concept of how Memphis will look to address its need for a successor at the position.

Though there have been several names listed as viable options at the three, one possible candidate currently found on the roster was recently deemed by Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley as a player who could “surprise” many in 2023-24.

Said individual: Ziaire Williams.

Grizzlies wing Ziaire Williams viewed as a player who could ‘surprise’ in 2023-24

Though acknowledging his shortcomings throughout his two seasons suiting up for the Grizzlies, including a 2022-23 sophomore campaign that saw him revolving in and out of the G League, the seasoned writer believes that, despite all this, the team’s lack of natural better options could wind up keeping the door open for Williams to receive ample opportunities in the rotation.

"“So, why does he still show up here? Because it’s frankly hard to quit on a toolsy 22-year-old who is barely two calendar years removed from being the 10th overall pick. He still has great size for a wing (6’8″, 215 lbs), plus the ball skills and shooting stroke that make you want to believe in his offensive potential,” Buckley wrote.“He is physically equipped to be a versatile defensive stopper, too, and Memphis could use one of those on the wings with Dillon Brooks now in Houston.”"

In the past, Buckley has proven himself to be a big advocate for seeing the Grizzlies shell out “meaningful minutes” to the former lottery selection during this coming season, citing his player description as having “‘go-to-scorer potential’ with a ‘dynamic handle’ and ‘playmaking upside.'”

However, to this point, all Williams has shown is that he’s been wildly inconsistent since kicking off his Grind City tenure back in 2021 and sports underwhelming averages of 7.2 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.0 assists while shooting 44.4 percent from the field and, in 2022-23, registered a putrid net rating of -5.2.

At this point in time, it’s hard to envision the 22-year-old taking any major strides forward as he heads into year three, though it would absolutely be a welcomed sight to see if he did.

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