3 unique ways Brandon Clarke is uplifting the Memphis Grizzlies: Malleability on the defensive end of the court
After playing a total of 24 minutes in game one of their first-round matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves, the Grizzlies’ season-long starting center, Steven Adams, found himself out of the rotation in favor of the more mobile Clarke. Though still technically playing in a reserve role, the Gonzaga alum has essentially acted as a de facto starting big, logging a shade under 30 minutes a game.
The replacement of Adams for Clarke in the group of starters has provided the Grizzlies coaching staff with arguably the most devastating five-man lineup in the postseason. Per NBA.com, the quintet of Morant, Brooks, Bane, Clarke, and Jackson Jr. has equated to a point differential of +34.0 points, suffocating opponents with a defensive rating of 94.0 points per 100 possessions.
The frontcourt pairing of Jackson Jr. and Clarke has played a significant role in mucking up opponents’ offense. By integrating Clarke into the fold, the duo of big men has provided Memphis with increased versatility on the defensive end. Each possesses the ability to protect the paint and contain opposing wings on the perimeter.
Clarke, in particular, has dialed it up as an interior force this postseason. Per Synergy Sports, the third-year big has held opponents to 26.7% shooting (4-of-15 FGs) around the basket on non-post-ups. While the 25-year-old is averaging a decent 1.1 denials in the postseason, his ability to both stay with his opponent and maintain verticality around the rim has yielded prime results.
The former Bulldog has also flexed his versatility by effectively guarding perimeter players when required. Per NBA.com, the following players have shot sub-45% from the field when guarded by Clarke: Anthony Edwards (7-of-17 FG), D’Angelo Russel (0-of-10 FG), and Stephen Curry (1-of-5 FG).