Scoping out 3 potential starting units for the Grizzlies in 2024-2025

Grizzlies go small ball

The NBA in the modern era has changed drastically across the board, and one of the most noticeable changes has been the implementation of what many refer to as a "small ball" lineup, which usually involves fewer oversized frontcourt players compared to normal.

What this would mean for Memphis would most likely be Jaren Jackson Jr. taking over the center spot, and with him being well-equipped to deal with the other centers in the league, the rest of the lineup would likely be composed of backcourt and mid-sized frontcourt players.

Theoretically, a small ball lineup for the Grizzlies would still retain a starting backcourt of Ja Morant and Marcus Smart, who will ideally be playmaking generals for the team, alongside a frontcourt that can reasonably switch on both offense and defense.

A frontcourt to match a small ball lineup has several options -- a potential lineup would see Jaren Jackson Jr at the center position to anchor the paint defense, and GG Jackson at power forward for his shot creation and shifty moves.

This would leave the small/shooting forward spot open for the discretion of coach Taylor Jenkins. Desmond Bane could be brought in for extra three-point proficiency, or Ziaire Williams to add another fast-paced piece to an offense capable of moving at lightning speed.

Although it would initially seem suspicious to bench a first-round pick that offers such tremendous paint presence, the Grizzlies will almost certainly be forced to go with a lineup of this type given the array of contenders in the Western Conference that will attempt to exploit their starting five.

In potential matchups against teams such as the Dallas Mavericks or the New Orleans Pelicans, a small ball lineup will allow Memphis to remain in the driver's seat of keeping the pace of the game to their liking, while also offering considerable offensive proficiency to keep on top of their opponents.

This lineup additionally allows Memphis to capitalize on one of its best overall assets, which is the strength of its incredibly young core. While it's reasonable to want veterans such as Smart on the floor to provide guidance, the youth provide an undeniably present edge in terms of raw energy.