Memphis Grizzlies: 3 reasons Kyle Anderson contract is a good move

1. A perfect fit for Grit-N-Grind culture

The NBA has gotten away from some of the traditional offensive sets from previous eras. Not only has the game become more perimeter-oriented, but there’s also a greater emphasis placed on acquiring position-less players who can excel at multiple positions.

In spite of this trend, though, the Grizzlies are determined to play the game at a more deliberate pace and force teams to play their brand of basketball.

"“Why try to copycat and be like everybody else?” JB Bickerstaff told the Memphis Daily News. “I think that’s the mentality we have right now. Everywhere you look around the league, people are chasing the Golden States, they’re chasing the Houstons.” “Why can’t we be different? Why can’t we be unique? Why can’t we be so good at what we do that teams have a hard time when they come and see us?”"

To be honest, I commend coach Bickerstaff for his approach. In a league that is predicated on hoisting up 3-pointers at historic levels and playing the game at an frenetic, up-and-down pace, no one would blame the Grizzlies for wanting to go in that direction as well. This is especially true considering that the Warriors have won three titles in four years and the Rockets were one win away from their first Finals appearance in over two decades.

But because they’ve had more success with being a defensive-minded team in years past, the Grizzlies don’t want to get away from that identity, even if it’s not as flashy as the Warriors and Houston Rockets.

This brings us back to Mr. Anderson. There is nothing flashy when it comes to his game. Although he was given the nickname “Slow Mo,” Anderson knows how to get to the rim.

Check out this nifty move against the Rockets.

While no one will ever confuse Anderson with Russell Westbrook, the guy can still be a one-man fast break.

All in all, Anderson isn’t overly quick or explosive. He doesn’t fit into the mold of the typical 3-and-D player, as he often passes on open looks from beyond the arc. However, he has shown flashes of being a capable scorer. He is an adequate ball-handler and facilitator who knows how to get to his spots on the floor in spite of his limitations.

Along with that, Anderson can be a disruptive force from a defensive standpoint. Is this four-year deal at $37 million a bit on high side? Probably.

Next: 2018 NBA free agency tracker: Grades for every deal so far

But for a Grizzlies squad that is looking to hang its hat on grinding out games on a nightly basis, this move makes perfect sense for both sides.