The Memphis Grizzlies can’t replace the production of All-Star power forward Zach Randolph who is out for two months with a torn MCL. No disrespect to ‘new guys’ Dante Cunningham and Mareese Speights but the impact of Z-Bo measures too wide across the board for the Grizz. He is the face of this franchise (though Rudy is more of a ‘looker’). Memphis is just 2-4 since Zach’s injury (counting the blowout in Chicago)…could they be better off going with a smaller lineup till Z-Bo returns?
The Grizzlies certainly have the scoring to make up for Zach Randolph’s absence in Rudy Gay, O.J. Mayo, and Marc Gasol. But I think they can only take advantage of it if they go small. I propose that coach Lionel Hollins start Mayo and move Rudy down to the 4 spot. A lineup of Gasol and 4 perimeter players may be enough to get wins versus some of the upper echelon NBA teams rather than just beating the bottom-feeders. Gay is a freakishly long 6’8″ so he can guard many of today’s power forwards…and we know he’ll be a matchup nightmare offensively against opposing PF’s. This may allow him more freedom offensively and lighten the pressure he’s under these days in Memphis. O.J. Mayo, too, could be rejuvenated as he would return to a starting role. Swingman Quincy Pondexter would welcome taking on Mayo’s 6th man role, the guy made his first 5 shots in L.A. recently. The defense of Marc and Tony Allen will help make-up for some size mismatches without having to resort to a zone defense. Most importantly here, the Grizz would again be a helter-skelter group forcing turnovers (their calling card). Mike Conley‘s return to the lineup from a sprained ankle couldn’t have come at a better time. The Los Angeles Lakers committed 27 turnovers vs Memphis recently, but that was more due to offensive miscues than aggressive defense. I think there is potential in Memphis for a squad that wreaks havoc defensively and then pushes the ball down your throat. Upon Zach’s return, the team could then return to their traditional lineup. Sure, it’ll take some games to adjust to the change but there should be just enough time to do so before the playoffs start.
The Memphis Grizzlies don’t have to make a drastic change with Zach Randolph out. They can hover around .500 with Dante and Mareese platooning in that PF spot. Finishing at the bottom of the playoff standings worked last year and this year’s Western Conference is even more balanced than last season.
Then again, Lionel Hollins can go small and add Z-Bo to a group that’s actually threatening for homecourt in the 1st round. It make be worth the risk.
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aren’t you the same guy who said going small isn’t always the answer for every team? hmmm????
Yes, I AM that man…but I also said recently that Miami should go big with LBJ & Wade in the backcourt. I think in this case, I like Memphis with a small lineup. They’re really good at forcing turnovers. Hollins can still start with conventional PF’s like Mareese/Dante, and then go small for the rest of the game.
-Knez