The Memphis Grizzlies are not panicking, despite losing their first four games to start the 2023-24 season. They have been riddled with absences, including Ja Morant’s 25-game suspension. Memphis lost to three playoff hopefuls, plus one regrettable game to the tanking Wizards. Still, the Western Conference is loaded, and there is zero time to waste.
Newcomer Marcus Smart drew praise from head coach Taylor Jenkins, despite the team’s struggles. There have been bright spots, but Memphis needs to get on track quickly or it could be too late.
The Grizzlies must make changes, and here are five they should immediately consider.
5. Get Reinforcements
The Grizzlies have ruled out Steven Adams for the entire season after knee surgery and made no guarantees about Brandon Clarke’s return following a second Achilles surgery. Xavier Tillman Sr. has played well as the starting big man, but Memphis desperately needs a backup.
They signed Bismack Biyombo, but he has yet to be available. The veteran center should help, but they must get him in the lineup.
Santi Aldama has missed each of their first four games with an ankle injury, and the Grizzlies desperately need him back. Hopefully, he can make an impact in the rotation when he is healthy enough to return.
Luke Kennard will be back on Nov. 1 after missing three straight games with a concussion. He will provide shooting and floor spacing the squad needs. Expect Kennard to knock John Konchar out of the nightly rotation as he gives Memphis some extra offensive juice.
The Memphis Grizzlies need reinforcements to break out of their slump to begin the season, but that alone won’t do it. They must play better and maximize their roster too.