THE Memphis Grizzlies made some bold moves this offseason. First, management doubled down on its Go Big in Grind City approach by recruiting Zach EdeyThe re-signing of Sixth Man of the Year candidate Luke Kennard has bolstered the rotations ahead of Yes Morant‘s return to the lineup. Aside from some two-way contract shuffling, the organization has stuck to the status quo.
It’s easy to understand why. Morant is an undeniable game changer for the Grizzlies, one of the top seeds in the West just a few years ago. The 25-year-old’s explosiveness and creative play elevate his teammates’ performances and electrify arenas. With Morant leading the way, the Grizzlies have potential to re-secure a top seed by the end of the 2024-25 season. That’s a bold prediction, at least, for fans milling around Beale Street.
1. Ja Morant’s MVP campaign
Morant has always meant business. He entered the Big Easy not once, but twice, to beat the New Orleans Pelicans with late-game heroics. The second overall pick in the 2019 NBA draft was eager to play after serving a suspension. Morant averaged 25.1 points, 8.1 assists, 5.6 rebounds and 1.4 steals/blocks per game while removing rust. Then shoulder surgery derailed the season after nine games.
Bold prediction: Morant is making the case for NBA MVP to completely change the narrative after a trying few years for relationships and faith.
2. Grizzlies come out of the underground
The Grizzlies were last in points per game (105.8) last season without Morant. The Indiana Pacers led the NBA at 123.3 points per game. Lauri Markkannen’s Utah Jazz were 11th at 115.7 points per game. Memphis needs to at least match an expected lottery team to make noise in the playoffs.
Bold prediction: Memphis is in the top five in points scored, while Morant is in the top 10 individually.
3. Reinforced defense
The best offense is a good defense, and visitors to the FedEx Forum can expect to face a tough defense. With All-Defense Team candidates Jaren Jackson Jr. anchoring the defense and Marcus Smart providing his tenacity, the Grizzlies will be a nightmare for opposing offenses. Morant will be able to take risks when Zach Edey is also patrolling the paint. GG Jackson and Scottie Pippen Jr. are also no jokes when it comes to doing the dirty work.
Bold prediction: Morant leads Memphis on the fast break, and the Grizzlies are among the top three teams in transition points.
4. An exceptional season for GG Jackson
GG Jackson is poised for a breakout year after being named to the 2024 NBA All-Rookie Second Team. Jackson showed flashes of brilliance during his rookie season and passed the test of the Las Vegas Summer League. The 20-year-old is ready to take on a larger role as a key contributor off the bench. Additionally, the team’s emphasis on fast-paced, high-energy basketball aligns perfectly with Jackson’s athleticism and versatility.
Bold prediction: GG Jackson gets a few votes for NBA Most Improved Player award.
5. Compete for the NBA Cup
The Grizzlies, grouped together, will be looking to get a point early in the season, while the other contenders will start the season slowly. That bodes well for finding a favorite to win this new midseason tournament. Memphis is in the toughest group on paper, but do any of those other teams want to make the trip to Las Vegas? The Denver Nuggets, New Orleans Pelicans and Golden State Warriors have other concerns to deal with. Asking LeBron James for advice on recovery is another matter. Memphis is going to make a run, but will that impact the next 60 games?
Bold prediction: Memphis wins Group C, wins a semifinal in Las Vegas and plays for the NBA Cup.
6. Drainage season ends at WCF
Football fans are familiar with the concept of the “double” and “treble.” It’s a rare feat reserved for the most prestigious clubs. The Grizzlies have the talent to win the first NBA Cup/NBA Finals in the same season. Will they have enough fuel left in the tank after trying to establish the best record in the NBA?
Bold prediction: The Grizzlies secure a spot in the Western Conference Finals but do not advance any further.
7. Jaren Jackson Jr. climbs DPOY rankings
Jaren Jackson Jr. will continue to dominate defensively, but he’s still a step away from elite status. Only 10 players averaged over 1.9 blocks last season. Jackson Jr. had 1.5 denials per game. Morant’s added pressure at the point of attack and Edey’s paint protection will allow JJJ to attack more shooting offenses.
Bold prediction: Jackson Jr. would average over 2 blocks per game, replacing the now-disgraced Rudy Gobert on the All-Defense team. Victor Wembanyama would go on to win the DPOY award.
8. Desmond BaneElite Club Membership Application
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Shooting over 50% from the field, 40% from the three-point line, and 90% from the free throw line is one of the most recognized benchmarks of elite shooting. Bane is close (46.4/38.1/87) and his efficiency will be crucial to the Grizzlies’ offensive success. There should be more open shots this season, so Bane will have every chance of joining an elite club.
Bold prediction: Bane doesn’t reach the 50/40/90 club, but it’s just. Watch out for the grenades at the end of the clock and the handful of wayward hitters at the buzzer at the end of the quarter.
9. Marcus Smart sets steals record
Known for his defensive prowess, Smart will be on full display of his ability to disrupt opposing offenses. The 30-year-old played in just 20 games last season, but he led the league in steals per game (2.1). It’s a safe bet the All-Defense dynamo will be digging into someone else’s pockets a lot this season.
Bold prediction: Smart will be in every top-three steal category, regardless of ranking. Per game, per 36 minutes, per 100 possessions, it won’t matter. Smart will steal more frequently than anyone else.
10. Zach Edey Earns All-Rookie Honors
Purdue’s Zach Edey averaged 25.2 points, 12.2 rebounds and 2.2 blocks as a 7-foot-10 college phenom. His transition to the professional game has been difficult so far, with Edey sitting out most of the NBA Summer League. Still, the ninth overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft will be the top starting big man when the season ends. Having per-36-minute numbers comparable to his NCAA production wouldn’t be surprising.
Bold prediction: Edey takes over as the All-Rookie First Team big man.
What do you think of these predictions? Are there any other players you’re keeping an eye on for the upcoming season? Do you think the Grizzlies can achieve these goals? Let ClutchPoints know on your favorite social media app.
