The Memphis Grizzlies had an incredible 2014-15 season where they finished second in the Southwest Division with a 55-27 record, finishing fifth overall in the Western Conference. The Grizzlies struggled on offense, averaging only 98.3 points per game, which was twentieth in the association. On defense, however, the Grizzlies excelled, allowing only 95.1 points per game, which was second best in the NBA. The Grizzlies differential of plus-3.2, which they got in an unusual way, was what got them in the playoffs and got them past the Trail Blazers in the first round of the playoffs. Let’s look at how the Grizzlies can improve through the draft in this draft preview.
Current Lineup
PG: Mike Conley
SG: Courtney Lee
SF: Tony Allen
PF: Zach Randolph
C: Marc Gasol
Draft Picks
Round 1, Pick 25
Team Needs
Offensive Small Forward: Tony Allen provides little offensive help for Memphis, averaging only 8.6 points per game last season. Allen is currently 33 years old and will not be producing offensively or defensively much longer in the NBA. The Grizzlies need to look for a small forward who can produce points to improve one of the worst offenses in the league and make an instant impact for the team.
Potential Picks
Anthony Brown: Brown fits the needs of the Grizzlies perfectly. He is offensive minded, averaging 14.8 points per game in his senior year in Stanford, and can make an impact immediately for Memphis. The Grizzlies also improve defensively since Brown is able to grab boards off the glass. All around, Brown is an improvement for the Grizzlies and would be a great pickup for them.
There you have it for the NBA Draft Preview on the Memphis Grizzlies. Be sure to tune in to the NBA Draft next Thursday, June 25th on ESPN at 8 PM.