4 Grizzlies who could be surprise starters in 2024-2025

Jake LaRavia

Among the surprising bloomers of this previous season for the Grizzlies is Jake LaRavia, the second-year player who had seen minimal time on the court during his initial 2022-2023 season with the club.

The myriad injuries Memphis endured last year saw LaRavia play in 35 games, six of which were starts, and average an increased 23 minutes per game, a steep step up from his previous 11.8 minutes per game.

While still due for refinement in his choice of shot selection and proficiency beyond the arc, the forward has shown flashes of crafty movement and court awareness that can aid in bolstering an already daunting Grizzlies frontcourt.

With an increase in playing time, LaRavia has shown possession of a great deal of the tools necessary to help the club in their championship aspirations, although there will clearly be more work needed as the offseason ends and the regular season progresses.

Despite only averaging a 34.0 percent conversion rate from distance and an unimpressive 38.9 percent clip from the field as a whole, working alongside fellow teammates as well as the coaching staff can help shape the 22-year-old into a viable starting player.

Where LaRavia fits into a starting unit would depend on how the Grizzlies match up with other teams. He could be inserted to play a small forward spot in a unit that focuses more on attacking the paint or transition plays to capitalize on his quickness.

Ideally, with continued practice, refinement of skills, and encouragement from his teammates, the former 19th overall pick could reasonably pick up a more well-rounded skillset to best keep the Grizzlies steady as they navigate the upcoming season.