The 2023-2024 NBA Season was extremely disappointing for the Memphis Grizzlies. In the 22-23 season, the team finished second in their conference but failed to impress in the postseason. Despite the lackluster postseason play, they were still expected to at least make the playoffs in 2024. Unfortunately, however, the team went 27-55, finishing 13th in the Western Conference. After failing to make the playoffs last season, many fans have lost confidence in any future success. However, with new roster changes and players back from injury, something special is brewing in Memphis.
The Grizzlies had a rough start to the season, starting with five losses in a row and no NBA Cup, the new in-season tournament, wins. On top of the losses, their star point guard Ja Morant was on a 25-game suspension from the league for irresponsible actions on an Instagram live. The team also went through some minor injuries, like Marcus Smart’s finger injury, causing their squad depth to decrease. This meant that more players had to stay on the court for longer periods of time, causing them to get fatigued by the fourth quarter. Max Morman, a student and avid NBA fan stated, “The whole team looked tired going into the later games of the season.” Memphis also struggled to fill the role of center, with their number one option, Steven Adams, out for the season for PCL issues. To fill the hole in the squad, they signed Bismack Biyombo, a thirteen-year NBA veteran. The team was able to string together a few wins here and there, but nothing was clicking. Eventually, Morant came back from suspension, and the team began to win again. Unfortunately, after only nine games back, Morant suffered a labral tear that required season-ending surgery. Shortly after Morant’s injury, key player Desmond Bane sprained his ankle, causing him to miss time mid-season, and he ended up missing the final stretch of games from back issues.
Despite all this, the Grizzlies were able to find some mild success at the end of the season with younger players getting opportunities to excel and show their talent. G-league stars like Jake LaRavia and Scottie Pippen Jr. were able to perform at a high level and earn roster spots on the Grizzlies. “Scottie has got insane ball knowledge”, Morman stated about the promising young star. The Grizzlies also performed well in the 2024 Summer League, making it all the way to the finals, losing by two points to the Miami Heat. The Summer League gave opportunities to their drafted and G-league players to prove themselves for the main roster. On top of their promising young talent, they also have seasoned players to help the team learn and build the skills needed to perform at the top.
Even though they had multiple roster changes, injuries, and lackluster team performance, they still have a drive to win. Any team coming out of an under 50% season should have the drive to improve, and the Grizzlies are no different. With a great mix of veterans and rising young stars, the Grizzlies should be set up for a fruitful winter.
