Memphis Grizzlies: Predicting who is coming back next year

MEMPHIS, TN - APRIL 10: Jevon Carter #3 of the Memphis Grizzlies high-fives teammates during timeout against the Golden State Warriors on April 10, 2019 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images) /

3 of 5

(Photo by Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Getty Images) /

The Probables

We can expect to see these guys back, but I wouldn’t bet any money on it.

Jonas Valanciunas
CJ Miles
Jevon Carter

Jonas Valanciunas did more than just fill the shoes of departed center Marc Gasol, he had to go to the store and buy bigger shoes. JV proved to be a great partner with Mike Conley and had some huge games down the stretch before an injury cut his season short, averaging 19.9 points and 10.7 rebounds in less than 30 minutes a night. He’s got a player option for $17.6 million that despite his great play, is likely to still be picked up. Back when he joined the team, it seemed like a virtual lock he would exercise his option.

After his strong play and almost every team being flushed with cap space this summer, he may think about opting out and going for a longer deal. Despite seeming like he’s been in the league 100 years, the big Lithuanian is only 26 years old and in his prime. His decision also depends on Grizzlies management. How they see their team could greatly influence his decision. Even with all this, it seems likely he’ll be back in a Grizzlies uniform.

C.J. Miles, fresh off of picking up his option for next year, is also likely to return to the team. Miles played well down the stretch and was able to knock down the long ball at 42.5 percent in March. He’s also a veteran presence in the locker room and just has one year left on his deal.

Jevon Carter, who hit 1/4 of his season 3-point total in the last game of the year, is also likely to come back. Despite not being able to hit water if he fell out of a boat, Carter found his shooting stroke late in the season, shooting 50.0 percent from the field and a scorching 59.3 percent downtown in the month of April. He’d come cheap and could serve as a strong third guard.

Home/Memphis Grizzlies