The Memphis Grizzlies have an intriguing group of players on two-way contracts. Second-round pick Javon Small did not disappoint in Summer League action for the Grizzlies, and the Grizzlies recently took a flyer on former 2023 first-round pick Olivier-Maxence Prosper. However, PJ Hall, despite being signed to a two-way contract in July, continues to be sparingly talked about.
Despite a very successful college career at Clemson, PJ Hall went undrafted in 2024. Shortly afterward, he signed a two-way contract with the Denver Nuggets. Hall made 19 NBA appearances but only played 3.5 minutes per game, averaging 1.7 points and 1.2 rebounds. Denver had strong frontcourt depth and was in no rush to give Hall important minutes. However, Hall's time in the G-League last season and this year's Las Vegas Summer League showed how he can fit in Memphis.
Hall appeared in 13 games for the Grand Rapids Gold, and it is safe to say he took his opportunities well. He averaged 19.2 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 2.4 assists in 31.5 minutes per game. Hall also added 1.1 blocks per game. What stood out was Hall's ability to score from different levels and his tenacity as a rebounder on both ends of the court.
PJ Hall had an impressive showing in Las Vegas Summer League
Shortly after the season ended, the Nuggets released PJ Hall following the expiration of his two-way contract. He quickly landed with the Charlotte Hornets summer league squad, and he became one of their most impressive performers. In five games, he averaged 9.5 points per game, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks in just 13.7 minutes per game. Hall was ultra-efficient offensively, recording a solid 69.0 eFG%.
While Hall's stats were impressive in limited minutes, his film tells the story even more. Hall showed improved instincts as a rim protector and was also not afraid to guard the perimeter occasionally. Offensively, Hall looked very comfortable as a screener and was effective as a rim runner. Another positive aspect of his game is his ability to grab contested rebounds on both ends of the floor.
PJ Hall is a strong fit for Iisalo's system
PJ Hall played so well that the Grizzlies signed Hall to a two-way deal just hours before the Hornets' summer league championship game. The Grizzlies needed more depth in the frontcourt following summer injuries to Jaren Jackson Jr. and Zach Edey. With both players potentially missing the start of the year, Hall could get NBA minutes sooner than expected based on how Brandon Clarke and Jock Landale perform.
The Grizzlies have spent this offseason looking for more toughness defensively and players that can fit Iisalo's pick-and-roll-heavy offense. While Hall must become a more consistent defender to stick in the NBA, the defensive strides he made this summer cannot be ignored. Hall's value as a screener and rim runner could prove to be valuable to Iisalo's offense if given opportunities.
PJ Hall will likely split time in Memphis and Southaven to start the season. However, his recent G-League and Summer League performances are potential indicators that he can contribute to an NBA rotation sooner than expected. With the Grizzlies having three solid two-way players, PJ Hall might be the most overlooked of them.