The Memphis Grizzlies are navigating a challenging season with a 24-49 record, including a tough 2-13 stretch in March. With nine games remaining, their focus seems to be on draft positioning. Despite the struggles, there's a bright spot: Javon Small deserves a standard contract this offseason.
This season hasn't gone as planned for the Grizzlies, especially after a promising 2021-22 run. As they enter a rebuilding phase, their draft success will be crucial in determining how quickly they can bounce back. Hitting on second-round picks is a key part of that strategy.
Javon Small: A Second-Round Gem
In the 2024 NBA Draft, the Grizzlies snagged Jaylen Wells and Cam Spencer in the second round, both of whom have been valuable contributors. Now, Javon Small is proving to be another second-round success. Cracking the top 10 of the NBA Rookie Ladder, Small is showing he's ready to be a fixture in the Grizzlies' rotation.
Small's season averages of 9.3 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in 19.9 minutes per game are impressive, especially considering his limited early opportunities and a turf toe injury. Post-All-Star break, he's stepped up, averaging 13.2 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 4.4 assists in 25.9 minutes over the last 17 games. Drafted 48th overall, Small's scoring and playmaking abilities are evident, and his defensive potential is promising.
Securing Small's Future in Memphis
Walter Clayton Jr., acquired in the Jaren Jackson Jr. trade, has struggled offensively since joining the team. Despite being a first-round pick, Clayton Jr. has been outperformed by Small, casting doubt on his future in Memphis.
This offseason, the Grizzlies face decisions about their crowded backcourt. The biggest question is whether Ja Morant will be traded. Depending on offers, players like Walter Clayton Jr. and Ty Jerome could also be on the move.
With potential changes in the backcourt, Small has shown enough promise to secure a spot beyond this season. Like Cam Spencer last offseason, offering Small a standard contract is a smart move to lock in his production on a team-friendly deal.
As the Grizzlies rebuild, they have tough choices ahead. However, offering Javon Small a standard contract is an obvious decision that could benefit the team's future.