Memphis Grizzlies: 2017-18 season preview

Storyline 2: How much of Grit-N-Grind lives on?

We’ve discussed what Tony Allen and Zach Randolph’s departures mean for the Grizzlies’ identity a bit elsewhere, so we won’t dive too much into that aspect of this storyline here. The question to explore is just how much of the defensive excellence that was born from the Grit-N-Grind philosophy was institutionalized, and how much of it was tied to Allen’s presence on the court.

The on/off numbers would suggest that the Grizzlies defended about as well with Allen as without him last year, but there are a ton of variables outside of his play that influence that differential. It’s possible that Memphis will continue defending well. Marc Gasol and Mike Conley are plenty capable on that end, though the data suggests that they may be starting to enter decline.

Even if that is the case, and Memphis disappoints defensively next year, there is reason to believe that the offense could improve from having better spacing. Winning games is about point differential, so as long as any slippage on defense is accounted for by a subsequent improvement on offense, the Grizzlies will be fine.

Grit-N-Grind isn’t exclusively about defense either. It’s an identity based in toughness and, to a lesser but not insignificant degree, guile. The Grizzlies still have plenty of both on their roster. And above all else, Grit-N-Grind is really something of a spiritual connection between the team and the city of Memphis. The Grizzlies have built up enough good will with their fanbase to maintain that relationship for a long time.