The Memphis Grizzlies had a successful 2021-22 season where they exceeded expectations. The youthful franchise flipped into win-now mode with most of their core still having room to grow in their developmental process. Age will not hold back the team from competing as Memphis will look to build off their strong showing last season. The franchise had the second-best regular-season record in the NBA at 56-26.
The team may have already been loaded with young talent, but this did not stop the Grizzlies from making a splash on draft night. The franchise walked away with four new rookies who each show some impressive attributes. The team traded into the 19th pick to add Jake LaRavia, the 23rd pick to add David Roddy, and the 38th pick to add Kennedy Chandler. Memphis also held onto their own 47th pick to draft Vince WIllimas Jr.
It is worth noting that the team traded away De'Anthony Melton in order to add the 23rd pick but also received Danny Green in return. Kyle Anderson elected to walk away in free agency and signed with the Minnesota Timberwolves for a two-year deal with $18 million. Yves Pons and Jarrett Culver also remain free agents. Given the full roster the team currently has and the perception that a deal would have been done already, the expectation is they will not be returning to the team.
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Memphis Grizzlies: 2022 NBA free agency grades for every key signing
Tyus Jones: A+
The only notable free-agent addition by the Grizzlies was the decision to bring back Tyus Jones. The seven-year veteran has proven to be an effective backup point guard and has been a valuable member of the Grizzlies over the past three seasons. Memphis handed him a two-year deal worth $29 million in order to return to the team.
While this is a hefty contract for a backup point guard, this is a worthwhile investment for the franchise. Tyus Jones has a strong case for the best backup point guard in the league. Many expected him to be targeting a starting job in free agency. The Grizzlies have greatly benefitted from having Jones in the backcourt to step in when Ja Morant was not there. This was a massive reason for their 21-6 record without Morant last season.
Tyus Jones played in 73 games last season and started in 23 of these. He averaged a career-high 8.7 points along with 4.4 assists and 2.4 rebounds while shooting 39% on three-point attempts. The Duke product is an effective playmaker who is not afraid to take the big shot when necessary. He is a terrific insurance policy to have behind Ja Morant and will still certainly make his impact felt within the rotation.
Some Grizzlies fans may have hoped for a larger splash, but the reality is allowing this team to continue to develop is the best course of action. Ja Morant (22), Jaren Jackson Jr (22), Desmond Bane(24), and Ziaire Williams (20) are still all likely a few years away from hitting their peak. Giving the nucleus enough time to grow together is vital to the franchise's overall success. Look for each player to continue in their individual development and for the team to take another step forward next season.
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