The Grizzlies’ talented starting five gets most of the national attention, but the bench is just as important for a team’s overall success. Last season, Memphis had the 2nd highest scoring bench in the NBA, racking up 3,601 total points, with an average of 43.9 points per game. Had it not been for injuries, the Grizzlies likely would have boasted the NBA's highest-scoring bench unit, as they finished just 13 points behind the San Antonio Spurs. Memphis’ bench arguably does not get enough credit for that statistic, though it’s not immediately obvious when looking only at final game scores.
The question going into this upcoming season is whether or not the Grizzlies will pass the depth test. Memphis has a lot of talent in its supporting cast, but is it enough when key players go down with an injury? When the bench has to pull more weight and play more minutes, is it enough?
It wasn’t enough last year, which was a major problem for the Grizzlies and part of the reason why they were unable to win games down the stretch. Injuries played a huge role, especially after Ja Morant, Jaylen Wells, and Brandon Clarke sustained season-ending injuries. With three key roster pieces out for Memphis, the Grizzlies found themselves relying heavily on their supporting cast, but it might’ve been too heavy of a lift at times.
Answering the call
Although the bench played well during this time period, some of Memphis’ depth issues were exposed. Every player should always be ready to go when their number is called. Even if that means bench and two-way players need to play an increased number of minutes due to injuries on the roster, the call must be answered.
There also needs to be a strong dynamic between everyone on the roster. This is especially important for two-way players, since most of their time is spent playing for the Memphis Hustle (G League). Whether that dynamic is fostered in practice, warm-ups, or real game situations, every player on the roster needs to be able to gel and develop alongside the rest of the team.
The rookies are ready
The pre-season begins on October 6th, which means there are a few things to watch out for as the Grizzlies prepare for their regular season debut on October 22nd. Since the games do not count toward the regular season record, this presents a wonderful opportunity to incorporate everyone into the rotation to see what works and what doesn’t.
Memphis has three rookies, two of whom the fans have already had the opportunity to watch during the Summer League. Javon Small and Jahmai Mashack have started strong, but the world has yet to see Cedric Coward play in a Grizzlies uniform. The good news for Memphis is that Coward was cleared for basketball activities on September 21st, so he is ready to go for the pre-season.
The bar is set relatively high for Cedric Coward. Memphis traded up in the draft for Coward, giving up the 16th overall pick, a 2028 first-round pick (via Orlando), and two future second-round picks to the Portland Trail Blazers. That said, Coward is expected to fit very well on the Memphis roster, and many are hopeful he develops into the next Desmond Bane.
Pass or fail?
The Grizzlies are expected to give the rookies some valuable minutes in the pre-season, as this will help strengthen the team’s overall dynamic. Not only is this good for the rookies, but it will also allow the other new faces on the roster to build rapport with the rest of the team. It was recently reported that Jaren Jackson Jr., Zach Edey, and now Brandon Clarke could be missing several weeks at the start of the regular season, so the Grizzlies will be put to the test early on. This is a talented unit, but does Memphis have enough to pass the depth test this year?