Javon Small's surge is forcing the league to pay attention

Javon Small's rise in Memphis is becoming impossible to ignore. Despite being drafted 48th overall and being on a two-way contract currently, Small is starting to show glimpses that he can be a legitimate piece for the Grizzlies. Beyond Memphis, today's latest announcement from the NBA is showing that the league is starting to notice Small's latest performances.

Dylan Harper of the San Antonio Spurs ended up winning the Kia Western Conference Rookie of the Month for February. However, what should not be lost is that Javon Small was one of the nominees for the award. This is a significant feat considering that Small was selected later than the rest of the nominees in what is a very strong 2025 rookie class so far.

Given the Grizzlies' constantly evolving injury situation and new-look roster post-trade deadline, Javon Small has gotten an increase in opportunities and has significantly capitalized. For the month of February, Small averaged 13.1 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.8 assists. Small has been a very reliable offensive boost for the Grizzlies.

Javon Small's shot creation has been very impressive despite the fact the Grizzlies have been without traditional bigs for most of the past month. Javon Small has a very impressive shooting touch and is a skilled creator off the dribble. He has also shown some promising flashes as a playmaker. It is looking like the Grizzlies found great second-round value once again with the Javon Small pick.

Small has a golden opportunity ahead

Javon Small should get plenty more chances given that the Grizzlies have a constantly evolving injury situation in their backcourt. Ty Jerome and Scotty Pippen Jr. have played limited minutes, as they just recently came back from multi-week absences. It also remains to be seen when Ja Morant will return from his left UCL sprain.

Javon Small and newly acquired Walter Clayton Jr. will get plenty of opportunities to play the rest of the season and will significantly factor into the Grizzlies evaluating their roster past this season. Javon Small was very productive in Summer League, and it looks like his offense is finally translating at the NBA level.

It is easy to see why Javon Small got a nomination even in a very stacked 2025 rookie class. The Grizzlies will likely be outmatched in most of their games the rest of the season. However, players such as Javon Small can keep the Grizzlies competitive in most games. Similar to players such as Jaylen Wells, Cam Spencer, and GG Jackson II, Javon Small looks like the next second-round steal for the Grizzlies.