3 obvious moves Taylor Jenkins must make to maximize Grizzlies lottery odds

Memphis Grizzlies v Minnesota Timberwolves
Memphis Grizzlies v Minnesota Timberwolves / Stephen Maturen/GettyImages
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1. Find a way to hold out core players for as long as possible

Though injuries are never seen as a good thing, one of the only positives that has come from Memphis' unfortunate health-related issues has been their increased odds of nabbing a top lottery pick during this summer's draft.

Of course, outside of Ja Morant, all players who are currently sidelined are expected to make their way back to the hardwood at some point before the end of the season, meaning high-impact core players like Desmond Bane, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Marcus Smart will have a chance to tack on a few more wins to coach Taylor Jenkins' all-time record.

While fans may be tired of seeing their beloved Grizzlies lose and, in turn, excited to see these aforementioned talents reenter the lineup, there's an argument to be made that this is the wrong move for this non-postseason bound team to make, as it only hinders their chances of landing a top-five spot in June.

Some such as Mark Giannotto of The Commercial Appeal are already urging the club's decision-makers to find a way to shut down, or, at the very least, prolong the absences of their core players, arguing that "finding hidden gems and developing the young pieces around their core are about the only motivation left."

They've already made it this far into their tank year. What's another 20 or so games?

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