The Memphis Grizzlies are 20-33 and have a very high likelihood of missing the Play-In Tournament. The return of Kyle Anderson will be valuable for the young talent developing in Memphis even if the team continues losing plenty of games.
One of the biggest things that stopped the 2021-22 Grizzlies from taking the next step as a team was the lack of reliable veteran players around their young core. However, a Kyle Anderson reunion is a good step in correcting that past mistake.
In his 12th season, Kyle Anderson is still a reliable presence off the bench. For the season he is averaging 7.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2.8 assists. Anderson made 20 appearances in Utah this season and has played three games for the Grizzlies since the trade. Beyond on-court production, Anderson's leadership will be crucial for the young talent the Grizzlies have on the roster.
Many players on the roster will benefit
The Grizzlies are starting another development phase in franchise history following the Jaren Jackson Jr. trade. It is especially noticeable how many young forwards they have on the team. GG Jackson II, despite being in his third season, is still just 21 years old and the youngest player on the roster. Cedric Coward, Jaylen Wells, and Taylor Hendricks are all still just 22 years old.
All the Grizzlies' young forwards have shown flashes of potential, but there is still so much room for growth. The Grizzlies had a strong defense with center Zach Edey, but they have struggled to guard the perimeter without him. Kyle Anderson is the perfect supporting veteran for them to continue developing with.
Jaylen Wells is one of the better defenders on the team, and GG Jackson II has also improved significantly on defense. However, Cedric Coward could become more consistent despite having all the tools needed to be a great NBA defender. Getting to learn from Kyle Anderson should allow these young players to eventually anchor an improved perimeter defense.
Given the lack of recent playoff success and the start of a new rebuild, the Grizzlies have to make a strong effort to ensure their young talent is surrounded by the right veterans. Kyle Anderson is one of the best starting points to help boost the current young forwards on the team. As the rebuild progresses, there will need to be more quality veterans added, similar to Kyle Anderson. However, Anderson's influence on the current roster could significantly speed up the Grizzlies' rebuild efforts.