Who’s got next? Predicting the NBA’s next dynasty
By Cal Durrett
NBA Team #3: The Memphis Grizzlies
The Memphis Grizzlies, led by 23-year-old superstar Ja Morant, have already turned into a championship contender and may be the favorites in a couple of seasons. After all, the Grizzlies have one of the best young cores in the league with players such as Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Desmond Bane. On top of that, they have a well-rounded supporting cast that includes Steven Adams, Brandon Clarke, Tyus Jones, and vet three-and-D wing Danny Green.
They also have virtually all of their picks, allowing them to get better, something that is key for contending teams and part of the reason why the original Grit-and-Grind Grizzlies hit a wall. Grit-and-Grind 2.0 won’t have to worry about that, and they do have 2021 10th overall pick Ziare Williams and 2022 first-round pick David Roddy (who I’m very high on), who could develop into key contributors down the road.
All told, Memphis has done a terrific job of rebuilding, and they’ve put themselves in a great position to become the next dominant team, maybe even the NBA’s next dynasty. Who would’ve thought that even a few years ago, when they were trying to squeeze juice out of a stone with Marc Gasol and Mike Conley?