The Memphis Grizzlies endured a challenging 2023–24 season, marred by injuries and suspensions. Ja Morant’s 25-game suspension set a tough tone, and subsequent injuries to key players like Morant himself, Desmond Bane, and Marcus Smart made it difficult for the team to find stability. Despite a strong defensive performance, their offense struggled significantly, and they eventually shifted focus towards development and future planning.
Season Overview
- Record: 27-55 (13th, West)
- Offensive Rating: 106.8 (30th)
- Defensive Rating: 113.7 (12th)
- Net Rating: -6.9 (26th)
- Pace: 98.68 (17th)
- 2024 Draft Picks: 9, 39, 57
Fantasy Standouts
Desmond Bane
- Games Played: 42
- Averages: 24.6 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 5.2 APG, 1.3 SPG, 3.4 3PG (before Morant’s return)
- Season Highlights: Career-highs in points, assists, and 3-pointers.
Bane was a bright spot for the Grizzlies when healthy, demonstrating his ability to lead the team in Morant’s absence. His scoring efficiency and all-around play made him a valuable fantasy asset, especially in 9-cat leagues. However, injuries cut his season short, affecting his availability during the fantasy playoffs.
Vince Williams Jr.
- Averages in 33 Starts: 12.6 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 4.5 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.6 BPG, 1.8 3PG
- Season Highlights: Top-150 in 9-cat value during his peak stretch.
Williams Jr. emerged as an important piece for the Memphis Grizzlies, stepping up when injuries decimated the roster. His performance from December to March showcased his potential and earned him a spot in the rotation, making him an intriguing player to watch for next season.
Fantasy Disappointments
Jaren Jackson Jr.
- Games Played: 66
- Averages: 22.5 PPG, 2.3 APG, 1.6 BPG
- Season Highlights: Career-highs in points and assists, but a significant dip in field goal percentage and blocks.
Jackson Jr.’s season was a mixed bag. While he posted career-highs in scoring and assists, his defensive stats, particularly blocks, suffered as he took on a larger offensive role. His reduced efficiency and lower block numbers made him less valuable than expected in fantasy leagues.
Fantasy Recaps/Look-Aheads
Ja Morant
- Games Played: 9
- Averages: Notable improvement in free throw percentage (81.3% on 7.1 attempts).
- Season Outlook: Morant’s season was largely a wash due to his suspension and subsequent injury. However, his improved free throw shooting is a positive sign for his fantasy value moving forward. Expect him to be a top-tier player in points and assists next season, though overall health and availability remain concerns.
Marcus Smart
- Games Played: 20
- Averages: Career-highs in points (14.5) and steals (2.1).
- Season Outlook: Smart’s tenure in Memphis was hampered by injuries. When healthy, he showed potential but will likely play a less central role with Morant back. He remains a strong source of steals with moderate contributions in points, threes, and assists.
GG Jackson
- Games Played: 18 starts, impressive offensive production.
- Averages: 20.3 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 2.1 APG, 3.0 3PG (in starts).
- Season Outlook: Jackson capitalized on increased minutes due to injuries, ending the season on a high note with a 44-point game. Though he may not start next season, his development and scoring ability make him a valuable bench piece and a potential sleeper pick in dynasty leagues.
Conclusion
The Memphis Grizzlies 2023–24 season was tumultuous, but it provided valuable experience for younger players and showcased the team’s depth. With a top-10 draft pick and key players returning from injury, Memphis is poised for a bounce-back season. Fantasy managers should keep an eye on the team’s health and rotation updates, as a fully healthy Grizzlies squad has the potential to be much more competitive and provide several valuable fantasy assets.
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