The Memphis Grizzlies suffered an earlier-than-expected exit in the 2022 NBA Playoffs, falling to the Golden State Warriors. The Grizzlies fought valiantly through the end of the series without their superstar Ja Morant, who was out with injury.
Despite the brave performance, the series showed some serious flaws in the Grizzlies’ roster.
Per ClutchPoints, there are three free agency targets that the Grizzlies could consider to address those concerns, including Miles Bridges, Jalen Smith, and Patty Mills.
Miles Bridges had a breakout season this year, scoring over the 20 points per game threshold for the first time in his career. He could be a big-time upgrade for likely-departure Kyle Anderson.
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Kyle Anderson played largely in a reserve role for Memphis but provided some key minutes in the postseason. Miles Bridges would be an explosive replacement, bringing star potential to Memphis’ wing rotation. However, it’ll be a challenge to pry him away from the Charlotte Hornets.
Jalen Smith was traded from Phoenix to Indiana this season but started to thrive once he became a Pacer. In Indiana, he averaged 13.4 points and 7.6 rebounds in 22 games. Mills, meanwhile, is a long-time veteran of the league, and one of its best sharpshooters coming off of a strong season in Brooklyn.
Memphis’ playoff struggles highlighted the need to upgrade center Steven Adams as well. Jalen Smith poses a great option in that regard. Smith makes under $5 million, so he could provide an athletic upgrade at a big discount.
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Patty Mills was named as a potential replacement to Tyus Jones, one of Memphis’ unrestricted free agents. Jones will likely earn some interest on the free-agent market and could end up leaving the Memphis Grizzlies. Mills would provide a veteran replacement, and his sharpshooting would make him a great fit next to Morant as well.
Memphis is in a good spot moving forward, likely only needing small tweaks to have another great season next year. These free agent additions could be great moves in ensuring that happens.
