The Grizzlies' quartet of new rotation players are keeping them alive in the west

Jay Huff has found a home with his fourth team.

Zach Edey may be getting all the love in the frontcourt, but his frontcourt counterpart is contributing just as much. Insert Jay Huff, the fourth-year center from Virginia. Undrafted in 2021, the big man has spent his first four seasons as a journeyman. Huff played in 11 combined games his first two seasons (four with the Lakers in 2021, and seven with Washington in 2022). In 2023, he spent 20 games in Denver.

This year has felt different for Huff, though. He's solidified a role in the team's rotation, playing in all 17 games thus far. Across those 17 appearances (one start), Huff is putting up career numbers. Playing only 15 minutes per game, Huff is averaging over nine points, chipping in nearly three rebounds and two blocks per game. Huff's shooting 56 percent (45 percent from three) and 81 percent at the line.

Huff's ability to play as a floor spacer and rim protector opens up the lane for Ja Morant, Zach Edey, and others. Yet, Huff has proven his ability to deter shots at the rim, taking pressure off Jaren Jackson Jr. defensively. The added additions of Edey and Huff give Memphis real frontcourt depth.

The Grizzlies haven't been flashy, but they've sustained winning with its' stars nursing injuries. The unlikeliest of contributors give Memphis flexibility in the new CBA, while ensuring the health of franchise cornerstones Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, and Jaren Jackson Jr. When this team gets healthy, watch out for them in the Western Conference!