Southwest Preview Series: Memphis Grizzlies
October 12th, 2009 | by crstuckey |We continue our Southwest division preview series as we take a look at what the 2009-2010 version of the Memphis Grizzlies will have to offer. To get some insight into the Grizz, we bring in Josh Dhani of Fanball’s MemphisBlueBears.com.
Check out what Josh had to say…
MavsBall: Tell us about the offseason activity that the Grizzlies were involved in. Any big splashes in free agency, the trade market and/or the draft?
JOSH: I think most of the players we got from the offseason will be make good contributions but not have many big roles. PG Marcus Williams was a good sign as he will make depth and be a good backup guard. Iverson will obviously play a role.
MavsBall: What role do you expect the new additions to play with team? Are we looking at role players or major contributors?
JOSH: I think the management made a pretty good decision in signing A.I. Mike Conley and O.J. Mayo need a mentor and A.I. can be a good one. He can also build a larger fan base to the Grizzlies franchise.
MavsBall: Can you explain management’s thought process regarding the signing of Allen Iverson? It seemed like an odd acquisition to me in terms of the current makeup of the squad. The roster is littered with young talent…was A.I. brought to be a mentor or does the front office think he was the missing piece that could propel the Grizzlies to the playoffs?
JOSH: I think he is a missing piece to lead Memphis to the playoffs. I mean, their starting lineup just looks dangerous with A.I., Mayo, Rudy, Z-Bo, and Gasol.
MavsBall: Is Marc Gasol ready to take on the role of a full-time starting center? Or will the drafting of Hasheem Thabeet lead to a center by committee situation?
JOSH: I think Gasol is capable of taking the starting role at center. He played well last year. I don’t think Thabeet is ready yet. I think he’ll develop after 1-2 years from backing up Gasol. He’ll also be learning from Randolph as well.
MavsBall: What kind of a season do you think this team is capable of? Do we have a playoff team on our hands? What are realistic expectations for this year’s squad?
JOSH: I think this team is capable of actually reaching the playoffs. I am not going to lie, these guys have a strong group of athletes. I can see them winning about 35-45 games this season.
Check back for more preview material soon.
Until next time…
Peace. Be good.
Tags: Allen Iverson, Dallas Mavericks, Hasheem Thabeet, Marc Gasol, Marcus Williams, Memphis Grizzlies, Mike Conley, O.J. Mayo, Rudy Gay, Zach Randolph
