Memphis Grizzlies: A Position-by-Position Breakdown (Small Forwards)
By Greg Chin
Admittedly, there is not much of Pondexter’s last season to analyse, as he only played 15 games. Pondexter suffered a stress fracture in his right foot and was sideline for the entire season. As a result, the statistics I have used will be from his 2012-13 season, unless stated otherwise.
He averaged 6.3 points, 1.7 rebounds and 1.3 assists last season.
Strengths: Scoring
Pondexter has shown an ability to score in a myriad of ways. He prefers to attack the rim, shooting 61.5 percent in that area. He has also developed a jumper, and has shown an increased confidence in shooting outside the lane. He can also create off the dribble, and has created scoring opportunities from the pinch post.
While his 3-point shooting percentage is still sub-par (32.4 percent last season), he has shown that he is capable of improving his jump shot. He shot 39.5 percent in his 2012-13 season with the Grizzlies and many will be hoping that he can replicate that accuracy in his comeback season.
Weakness: Health
Pondexter has never played a full season; his career high for games was 66 games in his rookie season and that number has steadily declined each year since then. There will be real concerns surrounding his health, especially after spending an entire year sidelined.
Foot injuries are always a concern for basketball players, especially in players who are young or in their physical prime (Pondexter is 26).
Finally, there were reports that Pondexter and coach Joerger had a falling out during the season. It all came to a head when Pondexter stared down Joerger during a game against Brooklyn, where Pondexter had his season high in points. Hopefully, both parties have been able to patch things up, as Pondexter figures to be a big part of the Grizzlies’ future plans.
Role and Expectations
Quincy Pondexter will most likely resume his role as a rotation player. He might see a reduction in minutes due to the drafting of Jordan Adams and the signing of Vince Carter.
Pondexter will have to prove that the injury has not affected the way he plays, as he relies heavily on his physical tools. When given the opportunity, he will also have to be more selective with his shots, as he has been criticized for taking too many bad shots.