3 positive takeaways from Grizzlies OT win over Pacers in preseason opener

Oct 8, 2023; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies center Steven Adams (middle), Memphis Grizzlies guard Marcus Smart (right), and additional team members react form the bench during the second half against the Indiana Pacers at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 8, 2023; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies center Steven Adams (middle), Memphis Grizzlies guard Marcus Smart (right), and additional team members react form the bench during the second half against the Indiana Pacers at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Indiana Pacers guard-forward Bennedict Mathurin shoots against Steven Adams. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports
Indiana Pacers guard-forward Bennedict Mathurin shoots against Steven Adams. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Steven Adams looked comfortable in limited action

Coming into this upcoming campaign, the Grizzlies find themselves with numerous question marks surrounding their roster, and, with the suspension of Ja Morant being the most frequently covered topic in this category, lost in its shadow is the health status of primary pivot, Steven Adams.

Shelved mid-way through last season with a PCL sprain, the big man has spent the last nine months rehabbing his shoulder. While the belief coming into training camp was originally that he’d be at full strength, during the team’s recent Media Day, Adams provided some questionable comments about his health status and refrained from confirming whether or not he’s fully back.

While this may have sparked a bit of concern amongst fans and media pundits alike, during Sunday’s preseason opener the 30-year-old seemed to be rather comfortable during his near-12 minutes on the floor.

Showcasing inspiring explosiveness and aggressive play in just one half of action, Adams finished the night with 4 points, 5 rebounds, and a block on 100 percent shooting from the field.

His big-bodied presence down low was felt on both ends of the floor while his visible displays of comfortability were undoubtedly an inspiring sight to see.