Memphis Grizzlies: What Does The Future Hold For Beale Street Bears?

How To Build Around Marc Gasol & Mike Conley

The Memphis Grizzlies have invested two massive contracts into point guard Mike Conley and center Marc Gasol. Daunting as the numbers may be, those decisions make sense. They’re, arguably, the two greatest players in franchise history, and they’ve led Memphis to consistent postseason success.

The question that must be answered before any other topic is approached, however, is quite simple: what is the best way to build around Conley and Gasol?

Conley is a playmaking point guard who has proven to be both clutch offensively and a capable on defense. Gasol does everything—literally—on both ends of the floor. They have skill sets that are easy enough to build around, yet Memphis has failed to find the missing piece for close to a decade.

The Grizzlies have long held the potential to become this generation’s version of the mid-2000s Detroit Pistons, but they need their Rasheed Wallace type of move.

Conley and Gasol are team-first players who have no problem deferring in a motion offense, but the front office must complement them with players who fill specific roles. Those roles come down to three basic principles: they must be able to shoot, defend, and pass within the confines of the system.

Although Memphis has somewhat limited cap space, its needs could be filled at an affordable price. It all comes down to a pair of key decisions that will determine how Memphis will proceed.