Despite being an absolute force down low for the Memphis Grizzlies during the 2021-22 NBA season, Steven Adams could not replicate this success during the playoffs. After being completely taken out of the rotation during their first round series against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Adams was basically non-existent for the Grizz during their run in the 2022 NBA postseason.
In the second round he saw more playing time, but only because Ja Morant was out injured and Xavier Tillman was playing poorly for them. This does come as a shock considering that he had solid numbers during the regular season. Throughout the 2021-22 NBA campaign, Adams posted averages of 6.9 points, 10.0 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 0.9 blocks while shooting 54.7% from the field.
However, that high level of production did not that translate into the playoffs. Adams was a mere non-factor the Grizzlies and the reason behind this still remains unanswered. It could be that Xavier Tillman was a better fit for the style of play they wanted to run in the postseason or maybe he was just not quick enough and they viewed his limited offensive skillsets as a liability.
Or maybe it was just that head coach Taylor Jenkins found a rotation that worked and couldn't find meaningful playing time for him. Whatever the reason may be, it's become quite apparent that the Grizzlies could use an upgrade at the center spot. After all, they were outrebounded by the Golden State Warriors all series long despite being the bigger team. On that note, let's take a look at three free-agent centers the Grizzlies should bring in as Steven Adams' replacement in the offseason.
Free agent centers Grizzlies should pursue in 2022 NBA offseason
Back in 2018, Mitchell Robinson was a second-round pick with a ton of promise and looked like an absolute steal for the New York Knicks. However, Robinson was heavily impacted by injuries over the past four seasons and has missed significant time as a result. This past season though, Robinson had a career year averaging 8.5 points and 8.6 rebounds on 76% shooting while having played in 72 games for the Knicks.
That level of consistently good play is exactly what the Grizzlies could use at the center spot. Just the very thought of Robinson competing in the same frontcourt as Jalen Jackson Jr. and Dillon Brooks would give opposing offenses all kinds of headaches. Their potent mix of size, speed, and length would truly be astonishing and make the Grizzlies an even more dominant defensive unit.
On offense, they could run even stronger pick-and-rolls and have better floor spacing. Especially with the likes of Morant, Desmond Bane, and De'Anthony Melton already bringing a ton of offensive explosion. With the addition of Robinson, the Grizzlies could be a legitimate contender again with more frontcourt depth.
2. Jusuf Nurkic
Jusuf Nurkic is another player that's been plagued with lingering injuries over the past few seasons. Having played in just 101 games since 2019-20, it's safe to assume that teams will approach Nurkic with caution. On the flip side, Nurkic is a sneaky good center that can thrive in a starting role when fully healthy. Throughout his seven years in the league, Nurk has averaged 12.2 points and 8.5 rebounds on 50% shooting.
In Memphis, Nurkic would be able to provide them with a ton of scoring, rebounding, and rim protection. His aggressive play would also be a great fit with the Grizzlies as they've proven to be one of the toughest teams in the NBA. Granted, this signing may be a long shot for the Grizzlies, but considering that they've already reached contender status as one of the youngest teams in the association, this could be a good selling point for the veteran center.
3. Robin Lopez
All throughout his time in the NBA, Robin Lopez has been something of a journeyman and has had a strong impact at almost every stop he's made. With the Grizzlies, Lopez could bring veteran leadership, shot-blocking, and rebounding that they'd benefit from greatly. His low post scoring would also give them an edge as he's one of the few active players who can pull off the hook shot. He also runs the floor well and could be a lob threat for them in transition.
He may not be the star player that his twin brother is, but he can still bring plenty to the table. Lopez's tenacity and fire would be a welcome addition to this young and energetic Grizzlies squad that's on the verge of championship stardom. Plus playing on a deep and star-studded team like the Grizzlies would give Lopez the chance to win an NBA title for the first time in his career.
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