Insider Insights: Grizzlies Dominate Kings in First Vegas Action

After going 1-2 in Utah with a lot of players in and out of the lineup, the Grizzlies took on the first day of Las Vegas Summer league nearly fully healthy. The only absence, however, was the biggest one as Zach Edey missed his 3rd straight game.

The Grizzlies got off to a 15-4 start, capitalizing on early turnover from the Kings. All five starters scored and Memphis forced a summer league record 12 first quarter turnovers as they built a double-digit lead.

Led by Scotty Pippen Jr. and Jake LaRavia, the Grizzlies offense continued to operate on all cylinders scoring 55 points in the first half. Trey Jemison played well in Edey’s absence and provided great activity on defense and the boards. An all-around great half from the Grizzlies gave them a 20 point lead going into the half.

The Kings were clearly outmatched overall, especially when it came to offensive execution. As the game progressed it was clear that the Grizzlies had a talent and experience advantage. The four leading scorers for the Grizzlies (LaRavia, Pippen, Jackson, and Jemison) all started games during an injury riddled season and it showed up today.

The Grizzlies would go on to win 103-83, with 5 players in double figures. Their defensive intensity also stood out as recorded 20 steals on the way to forcing an incredible 31 Kings turnovers.

Do the Grizzlies have a Summer Super Team?

There were not a ton of positives from the Grizzlies last season, but the development of the Grizzlies young players was crucial. When playing all their guys, the Grizzlies are one of the best teams in the summer league. With multiple players that played major minutes in the NBA last season still in the summer league, the Grizzlies showed why experience is extremely important.

Scotty Pippen Jr., GG Jackson, and Trey Jemison were the major benefactors and have all taken a step forward because of it. Injuries prevented Jake LaRavia from getting a ton of minutes, but he has definitely looked more comfortable and confident than ever before. Even bench players like Dejo  Jarreau, who also played minutes for the big team this year, have take steps forward and capitalized on their opportunities. Summer league performance like these reinforce the fact that last season was not a complete waste, even if it felt that way at times.

Is Edey’s injury a cause for concern?

Zach Edey missed his 3rd straight game after tweaking his ankle in the Grizzlies first game in Salt Lake City. According to Drew Hill of the Daily Memphian, the plan is for Edey to come back at some point during the team’s time in Vegas which is a good sign for his health. If it was a serious injury, they would have already ruled him out for these games so you should be optimistic about his return. He also played the rest of game one after his ankle was hurt, so it’s possible he would be playing through it if this was a regular season or playoff game. After a rough season with injuries it is understandable for people to be concerned, but when Edey was on the court he was productive and I expect the same when he is back from his injury.

On the other hand, his injury has provided a huge opportunity to Trey Jemison. The two-way big man played a lot of minutes on an injured Grizzlies team last season and has done well in his minutes so far this summer. His hands have gotten substantially better on both ends of the floor and has become a solid rim protector along with his energy on the glass. He has also been much more patient on offense getting easier buckets and finishing around the rim at a higher rate. The Grizzlies sneed Edey back, but it’s good to see Jemison take advantage of an opportunity to showcase his improvement.

Is Cam Spencer ready to contribute?

Cam Spencer had another promising performance today showing off his scoring and playmaking ability for the second straight game. It’s early on but he looks to be another steal in the 2nd round. After recording a near triple double in Utah, Spencer was rewarded with a starting spot and he did not disappoint. 

The most impressive part is that Spencer has taken great care of the ball and has been extremely efficient from the floor, which is not usual for summer league guards regardless of draft position. Even though he does not have any professional experience, his 5 years in college have prepared him for a day one role. The Grizzlies probably won’t have to rely on the two way guard for minutes this season, but it’s good to have him as an option if there is an injury. After last season, I’m sure the Grizzlies want as many insurance policies as possible.