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3 unique ways Brandon Clarke is uplifting the Memphis Grizzlies

By Jack Kelly

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - APRIL 16: Brandon Clarke #15 of the Memphis Grizzlies looks to pass during Game One of the Western Conference First Round against the Minnesota Timberwolves at FedExForum on April 16, 2022 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. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)
MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - APRIL 16: Brandon Clarke #15 of the Memphis Grizzlies looks to pass during Game One of the Western Conference First Round against the Minnesota Timberwolves at FedExForum on April 16, 2022 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. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images) /
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Brandon Clarke, Memphis Grizzlies
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – APRIL 23: Brandon Clarke #15 of the Memphis Grizzlies reacts to a call on the floor against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first quarter of the game during Game Four of the Western Conference First Round at Target Center on April 23, 2022 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Timberwolves defeated the Grizzlies 119-118 to tie the series 2-2. 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. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images) /

3 unique ways Brandon Clarke is uplifting the Memphis Grizzlies: Terror on the offensive glass, providing crucial second chance opportunities

Perhaps the most identifiable aspect of Brandon Clarke’s game is his relentlessness in crashing the offensive boards. Although not blessed with enormous reach, Clarke makes up for his neutral 6’8 wingspan with his explosive 40.5″ vertical leap, allowing him to sky over the pack for rebounds.

Throughout the playoffs so far, Clarke is averaging 3.1 offensive rebounds per game, the highest total amongst his remaining peers this postseason.

While the value of offensive rebounds can be questionable based on a team’s defensive scheme, the Memphis Grizzlies are certainly a team that emphasizes attacking their own backboard, as they led the league in this category during the regular season.

The Grizzlies have the cavalry on hand to go after second-chance points while still being able to defend in transition (third-best in the NBA per Synergy Sports). Hence, accentuating a player of Clarke’s ilk to be able to wreak havoc on the offensive glass and not hurt his team in the process.

The third-year big has already had five games with three or more offensive rebounds, including a career-high nine in Game 5 against the Timberwolves. Clarke is providing his team with an important 3.1 second-chance points per game.

These additional opportunities generated by Clarke provide incredible momentum from the home crowd whilst inspiring his peers with his tenacity on the glass. A personal highlight of mine has been the return of the ‘tap out’ offensive rebound, inspired by 19-year-vet Tyson Chandler.

At almost 26 years of age, we are most likely witnessing the apex version of Brandon Clarke. And while his skillset is largely determined, the impact Clarke has made in his first ‘real’ stint in the postseason should make him a mainstay amongst this Grizzlies’ juggernaut roster. After all, his endeavor and play style embody that of a Grit and Grind savant.

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