3 Grizzlies who have most to prove during final week of 2023-24

2. Lamar Stevens

Like Goodwin, Lamar Stevens is a player who puts forth a hustle-and-bustle style of play that, in many ways, is reminiscent of the Grit and Grind Grizzlies from the 2010s.

Completely the opposite of Goodwin, however, is Stevens' tenure in Memphis, which started out strong but, unfortunately for him, has fizzled out as of late.

Upon his arrival to the franchise following the Xavier Tillman trade to the Boston Celtics, the tweener-forward quickly endeared himself to the team with his full-go, two-way energy. Through his first 12 games played, Stevens was posting impressive averages of 11.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, and just shy of a block while shooting 47.8 percent from the floor and 41.2 percent from deep.

All seemed to be going right for the fourth-year pro, as it appeared he was finally coming into his own with his new opportunity with the player-needy Grizzlies. That is, until he went down with a nagging Abductor injury that forced him out for six-straight games.

Since his return on March 25, Stevens has been far less consistent with his play, as he's been averaging 11.3 points over a six-game stretch and is shooting at less than 42 percent from the floor and a putrid 12.5 percent from distance.

His last performance was arguably his best since making his way back to the court, where he registered 15 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 steals in what wound up being a huge blowout win over the Detroit Pistons.

With this, it suggests brighter days could once again be ahead for the forward and, should he finish out these next few games strong, he could secure himself a larger payout during this year's free agency, be it with the Celtics or another interested organization.