Memphis Grizzlies: Taking a look at the new arrivals
C.J. Miles
Contract situation:
- 2018-19: $8.3 million
- 2019-20: $8.7 million (player option)
What can C.J. Miles do for the Grizzlies now?
C.J. Miles, the journeyman from Dallas, makes another stop in the NBA. Miles has developed himself into a quality shooter since entering the league out of high school in 2005.
Miles’ playtime dwindled during this season with the Raptors Toronto, playing just 14.1 minutes per game and throwing up all kinds of bricks. Miles put up his worst field goal percentage of his career this last year, hitting just 34 percent of his shots while putting up his worst 3-point percentage in nearly a decade at 31.4 percent.
Miles comes in to “fill the void” left by Garrett Temple, Memphis’ closest thing to a 3-and-D player. Miles shoots the 3-ball at a higher rate than Temple did, but drove to the basket at a much lower rate.
The biggest problem with Miles is that his presence torpedoed Toronto’s offense straight into the ground. The Raptors were roughly 15 points better with Miles sitting on the bench, and their defense was a full three points better as well.
Similar to Bradley, Miles’ best days are in the rearview mirror. While he will definitely get an uptick in playing time, Miles will struggle to make a significant impact for the Grizzlies. If anything, he can provide occasional defensive value with limited offensive potential.
Does Miles fit in with the Grizzlies’ future plans?
Miles has a player option that he is 250 percent likely to pick up, as he would be hard pressed to find a suitor willing to pay a similar wage. The only way Miles opts out is if he really doesn’t like his situation in Memphis. He could be another trade piece with his expiring money going into next season if the Grizzlies decide to go down that direction.