DKNation will review all 30 teams ahead of the season, looking at how the roster is shaping up for the 2022-23 campaign. Here we take a look at the Memphis Grizzlies, who will be looking to take the next step towards a championship behind star point guard Ja Morant and a supporting cast of aspiring players.
2022-23 Memphis Grizzlies Outlook
Main additions: David Roddy, Jake LaRavia, Kennedy Chandler, Danny Green
The Grizzlies made big moves in the 2022 NBA Draft, grabbing Roddy and LaRavia in the first round before picking up Chandler in the second round. All three players have shown flashes at Summer League, although Roddy may be the only one to break the regular rotation this season. Green is recovering from an ACL injury and is unlikely to play this season.
Key Departures: De’Anthony Melton
Melton was part of the draft day trades that helped Memphis land Roddy and Green. He’s not totally irreplaceable in the rotation, but he was a shrewd player who could be powerful from the perimeter. We’ll see how the Grizzlies approach Melton’s departure, with Ziaire Williams likely having a chance to take his place first.
Expectations of the season
The Grizzlies likely believe they beat the Warriors in the second round if Morant was healthy. That would mean they probably also believe they could have beaten the Mavericks and made it to the NBA Finals. The expectation is to compete for a championship, while seeing improvement from peripheral players.
Projected starting composition
Morant, Desmond Bane and Dillon Brooks are locked in the starting lineup. Until Jaren Jackson Jr. returns from injury, I expect Brandon Clarke and Steven Adams to round out the top five. When Jackson Jr. returns, look for whoever did the worst out of Clarke and Adams to hit the bench.
Fantasy basketball player to watch: Desmond Bane
Bane broke out last season, averaging 18.2 points per game while maintaining efficiency on the court. He’s particularly lethal from deep, connecting on 43.5% of his triples in his career. If Bane can continue on this trajectory, he will be the perfect complement to Morant in the backcourt. Look for Bane as a late addition in fantasy drafts, especially if your league favors guards.
