The Memphis Grizzlies started the new season 1-0 despite some foul trouble and multiple key players missing. They found themselves trailing by 15 points in the first quarter before eventually clawing their way to victory in the second half. Despite the team desperately needing to return to full strength, last night's win was a promising display of grit.
With so many players missing to start the season, the Grizzlies are embracing the idea of competition and giving the young players chances to prove themselves early. However, a notable absence from the game was third-year player GG Jackson II, who is still just 20 years old. Despite being healthy, GG Jackson II did not play a single minute in the season opener.
There should still be plenty of tweaks to the rotations in the coming weeks, but it is quite telling that GG Jackson II did not see the floor. The Grizzlies seem to be opting for as much defense as possible, and they might have found an unexpected source of defensive potential. Despite signing a two-way contract back in July, Olivier-Maxence Prosper could become an integral piece in the Grizzlies' rotation soon.
Prosper is building on his successful preseason minutes
Preseason did not go well for the Grizzlies, but Olivier-Maxence Prosper was a positive surprise for the team. Prosper struggled to earn playing time in Dallas, but he was a game-changer for the Grizzlies on the defensive end in the preseason. The season opener was no different, and he was a key factor in the momentum shifting in the Grizzlies' favor.
In 15 minutes of game action, Prosper scored 10 points and added five rebounds. Despite not recording any steals or blocks, he was a solid boost to the defensive end. As part of the end-of-game lineup, Prosper also hit two late free throws to help seal the Grizzlies' first win of the new season. The Grizzlies need as many players as possible to step up early, and Prosper is answering the call so far.
Soon, the Grizzlies will enter a difficult stretch of their schedule against some of the best teams in both conferences. Prosper likely won't have the same offensive production every game, but his rebounding ability and defense should be a valuable asset against the league's best teams. Prosper is playing more than what was previously expected in the offseason and has capitalized on his chances.
With Vince Williams Jr. out due to injury and GG Jackson II not playing the season opener, Prosper will likely continue getting more playing time. In recent seasons, the Grizzlies have an extensive track record of two-way contract players eventually earning standard deals. If Prosper continues to defend and rebound at a high level, he could be the next Grizzlies two-way success story.