MEMPHIS – With training camp in full swing and preseason games looming, the Grizzlies maintain a big-picture focus while simultaneously sweating through the small details.
The goal is to build on a breakthrough season that carried Memphis to a 56-win season and the second round of the playoffs for the first time in seven years.
All three guys, they’re a very significant part of our group. We view them as potential long-term pieces.
With 18 nationally televised games that will showcase All-NBA point guard Ja Morant and All Defensive Team member Jaren Jackson Jr, the Grizzlies are eager to make headway and headlines this season. That message was clear during Monday’s team media day and resonates in training camp.
Let’s examine 10 Key Statements the Grizzlies made, and my take on the meanings they convey.
What was said:
“All three guys, they’re a very significant part of our group. We view them as potential long-term pieces.” – Grizzlies Executive VP and GM Zach Kleiman
My perspective:
Veterans Steven Adams, Dillon Brooks and Brandon Clarke are currently extension-eligible. Kleiman has already inked extensions with Morant and backup guard John Konchar this offseason. Locking up at least one of those three vets in the coming weeks appears in the cards, with all three firmly in the rotation and indicating they’d prefer to stay for the long haul.
What was said:
“We’re still trying to figure out Jaren Jackson Jr. from a timeline standpoint … Santi (Aldama) had a great summer. Jake LaRavia and David Roddy play the three-four or four-three. Brandon Clarke and Xavier Tillman are in the mix. So, we’re putting on our thinking caps. We have a lot of guys capable of stepping into that position.” – Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins
My perspective:
Aldama, a late first-round pick in last year’s draft, is legitimately a strong candidate to fill the void at starting power forward until Jackson returns from rehabbing his foot injury. At 6-11 with a fluid 3-point stroke already on display in camp, Aldama owns a combination of Jackson-type length and shooting range. Aldama hasn’t disappointed. But he must make defensive strides.
What was said:
“Just have that understanding of what it took to get there – that’s the bare minimum for expectations moving forward. We understand the habits and foundation we need to have to make that type of run happen.” – Grizzlies guard Desmond Bane
My perspective:
Although the West is healthier with stars who were largely absent last season, the Grizzlies still feel they’re a team to beat. The quest is to fight their way into the Western Conference finals, drawing on last year’s journey that ended with a six-game loss in the second round to eventual champion Golden State. The Grizzlies opened camp fully embracing their lofty expectations.
What was said:
“It feels good … (but) Opening Night, probably not likely. If I’m talking to (myself), that younger player, I would definitely say ‘Keep your head in it.’ You’re fighting a war on two fronts. Keep doing what you can do. Control what you can control.” – Grizzlies forward Jaren Jackson Jr.
My perspective:
If Jackson remains on the four-to-six-month timeframe the team announced after summer foot surgery, it likely means a return somewhere between Thanksgiving and Christmas. He’s been on this long road to recovery before, when he missed most of the season two years ago after knee surgery. Jackson insists he’ll draw from that experience by remaining engaged as he vows to be back ahead of schedule.
What was said:
“I’m blessed to be part of an organization while rehabbing an injury. I want to have an impact and help this team mature, that’s pretty much all they need. It’s about helping me develop chemistry and teach a couple of things to help them win. They seem receptive and want to learn. As soon as I’m healthy, I’m going to play.” – Veteran newcomer Danny Green
My perspective:
On an expiring contract with months of rehab still ahead from spring knee surgery, there’s a chance Danny Green may never play a game with the Grizzlies. But contributions from a four-time NBA champion will largely come in sharing wisdom and experience. Green’s relationship with Jenkins dates to their days in the Spurs organization, which is paying dividends in camp.
What was said:
“I’m being honest? I’m not satisfied. I’ve got eight more spots to go. I’m trying to be No. 1.” – Grizzlies All-NBA point guard Ja Morant
My perspective:
I asked Morant to reflect on how far he’s come as a player who barely registered on the prep prospect radar five years ago to being rated No. 9 in ESPN’s rankings of the NBA’s top players. He answered as if he were attacking the rim for another poster-worthy dunk. That dominant instinct to be the absolute best in the NBA comes from a genuine place.
What was said:
“I played 25 games last year. I just want to play. I can guard from the one to the four on the court. I just want to contribute. Find ways to find your niche, find a way to be productive in any role you play in. Luckily, I got to see everything early.” – Grizzlies swingman Dillon Brooks
My perspective:
Brooks, who is the Grizzlies’ longest-tenured player entering his sixth season in Memphis, is likely again entrenched as a starter. But his best impact might come when he’s in a featured role on the floor with reserves. Questions loom, particularly regarding its wing depth. In a contract year, what’s best for the team can also be an opportunistic breakthrough for Brooks.
What was said:
“Growing up, I didn’t know much about NBA basketball in general. But the dude just doesn’t lose. That’s the main takeaway. He was just a flat-out winner. Even being a part of the league now, you know he’s just a key piece of development of basketball itself. It’s a Founding Fathers-type thing, you know.” – Grizzlies center and New Zealand native Steven Adams
My perspective:
All NBA players will rightfully have the No. 6 stitched on their jerseys this season as part of the NBA’s commemoration of Bill Russell’s legacy. An 11-time NBA champion regarded as one of the greatest winners in professional sports, Russell died this summer at age 88. Russell was also a pioneer as one of the first professional athletes to emerge as a leader in the Civil Rights era.
What was said:
“I just want to be an impact on the floor more than I did last year.” – Grizzlies second-year swingman Ziaire Williams.
My perspective:
The No. 10 pick in last year’s draft, Williams has added length and strength in anticipation of a second-year leap. He spent part of the summer under Desmond Bane’s wing and working out in Spain with draft classmate Aldama. Williams aims to increase his playmaking, ball-handling and defense. Amid some offseason departures, the door is open for a major impact.
What was said:
“For me, coming back, it was about comfort – continuing to chase a championship. Feels like we’ve got all the pieces we need. The time is now. I view myself as a starter who just comes off the bench, playing with one of the best point guards in the league. For me, it’s not a pride thing.” – Grizzlies backup point guard Tyus Jones
My perspective:
When searching for the qualities that make this team special, look no farther than Jones’ mindset and maturity. He’s a key reason the Grizzlies posted a 20-5 record in games Morant missed last season. If both catalysts can stay relatively healthy this season, no team in the NBA boasts a more efficient and effective PG tandem than Memphis. And it’s not even close.