Jaylen Wells has already established himself as a crucial defensive piece for the Grizzlies. Even though Wells has not taken the offensive leap that some hoped for, he is still very important to the Grizzlies' success. However, the one area he needs to level up is on fast breaks.
It has been an inconsistent offensive year for Jaylen Wells. Even though he has increased his scoring average by almost two points, the efficiency has been inconsistent. In the month of February, Wells had his highest-scoring month of the season, averaging 14.6 points per game. His three-point shooting has improved, and he is getting to the mid-range. But the one thing that is holding him back from being even more dangerous on offense is his fast break ability.
Wells needs to improve his decision-making in transition
Jaylen Wells had a very scary fall last season on a fastbreak dunk attempt when he was fouled by KJ Simpson. At that time, his rookie season came to an end, but it does raise the question of if it has caused him to hesitate on fast breaks this year.
Overall, Jaylen Wells has shown significant improvement as a finisher, but it hasn't fully translated to transition opportunities. Wells is not as explosive as teammates such as Olivier-Maxence Prosper and GG Jackson II. However, the way Wells can overcome that is by improving his decision-making on fast breaks.
Wells should focus on these two key areas
There are probably two main areas that Wells can really focus on to have more fastbreak success.
First, he needs to go up stronger and not hesitate when scoring opportunities present themselves. Given that Tuomas Iisalo is big on playing with pace, it will be essential for Wells to become a better finisher in transition, since his great defense can create more scoring opportunities. Second, he also needs to be willing to pass when surrounded by multiple defenders.
For instance, Wells against the Mavericks yesterday had a transition opportunity where he was already guarded but went up for a rushed finish instead of passing to an open teammate. The other wings on the Grizzlies have usually shown a greater comfort level in transition this season.
Jaylen Wells has definitely made strides on offense and is easily one of the best defenders on the Grizzlies. He is absolutely a piece that the Grizzlies need to keep past his rookie contract. However, the one weakness that is stopping him from reaching a higher level is his fastbreak ability.