4 Memphis Grizzlies who must step up in Ja Morant’s absence
By Elaine Blum
Grizzlies player #2: Luke Kennard
Tyus Jones is arguably the best backup point guard in the NBA. Inserting him into the starting lineup is not a problem. The problem is that he doesn’t have a backup. The Grizzlies essentially have three options here: add a veteran point guard in free agency, draft an older, more experienced prospect with the 25th pick, or rely on Bane and Kennard to provide secondary ballhandling and playmaking.
After arriving in Memphis at the 2023 trade deadline, Kennard averaged 2.3 assists and played 17 percent of his minutes at the point guard position per Cleaning the Glass. The last time he played more minutes at the point was back in the 2020-21 season with the Clippers. He needs to be ready to take on more ballhandling and playmaking duties than he is used to or maybe even comfortable with. Considering the roster’s current state and that there is only one available point guard, everyone will need to pitch in – Kennard especially, as his minutes will likely increase significantly with a shorter backcourt rotation.
Most importantly, however, Kennard will have to be comfortable taking a lot of shots. His three-point shooting will be crucial in making up for all the lost scoring. He and Bane were by far the best shooters on the team last season. With Bane having to shoulder so many other responsibilities once the season starts, Kennard will have to step up as the primary shooting threat. The Grizzlies need more than just one reliable shooter on their supporting cast but if at least Kennard can stretch the floor, he will make it much easier for Bane and Jackson to put pressure on the defense.