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Is There Something In This Lineup’s Sensational Play? Another “Bench Big Three”?

Memphis’ youth movement hasn’t been a total letdown. Examine the efficiency of the Aldama/Roddy/Williams trio as evidence.
By Luke Hatmaker - January 3, 2024, 8:00 am - 1 comments
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It’s often said that for a team to win a title, that team must have at least two of the best 50 players… Two of the best 50 players in the entire NBA on their roster. A duo of that caliber goes a long way towards bringing that championship home.

Now, if you can do one better? A “Big Three? *Insert suspenseful music here*

The Big Three

The big three includes chris bosh (#1), Dwyane wade (#3), and lebron james (#6). TWO OF WHOM were acquired by the miami heat in the 2010 offseason. The TRio is referenced as the best acquisition of players since the boston three party.

We’ve all seen how that works. At this point, it’s become the norm, I’d argue. The pursuit of a “Big Three” has often sent teams searching for more answers… And more money…

Quite often, they run out of both while chasing that white rabbit.

Hell, the Grizzlies have been guilty of it themselves. Look no further than the forced juncture of Chandler Parson with Marc Gasol and Mike Conley.

What’s been so excellent—and encouraging—about recent Memphis moves?

Well, for one, we’ve already got our “Big Three”. Through some combination of draft skill and luck, the Grizzlies have succeeded. At least on that front.

They’ve assembled Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Desmond Bane in Memphis… And that’s about as good a trio as you could ask for. At least when it comes to leading your team. You’ve got a good deal of bases covered with that group.

I’d argue you’d have to be blind to not notice what the Grizzlies have assembled. When it comes to their starters? They’ve made it clear as day their intent there.

What’s been a little less clear—in a good way, if that’s possible—is what has transpired on the bench. Memphis has a “Big Three” starting, but they also have three players operating at “Big Three” levels of efficiency…. on its bench.

The fact that this team again has role-players ready to be optimized bodes well for the Grizzlies as a whole.


The Concept of a “Bench Big Three” and The Modern Memphis Version

Here’s how I chose to define the idea. A “Bench Big Three”. A trio of guys performing together at such an efficient rate it overpowers opponents. All off the bench. Think of Sixth Man of the Year levels of play… But divided up between three players. Could you cut that trophy up and give it to a trio of guys?

…You get it…

This concept of a “Bench Big Three” is not one that should be a mystery for Memphis or its fans; far from it. They’ve had what I would consider to be one of the best versions of this in recent memory.

We’re only a few years removed from the three-headed bench mob that pummeled opponents. I’m talking about Tyus Jones, De’Anthony Melton, and Brandon Clarke.

That trio—with Clarke at the 5—had a point differential of +29.6 that season in 152 possessions. That’s really good and ranked in the league’s 100th percentile in ’21-’22. That’s per Cleaning the Glass and that’s going to be pretty damn tough to out-perform.

Fast forward two seasons. Who are the players this time? It feels like this may surprise some of you.

Ziaire Williams, David Roddy, Santi Aldama. In this combination, Z is playing the 2, Roddy the 3, and Santi the 4.

Those lineups in 65 possessions? Right now, their point differential sits at +11.4 on the season. Now, that’s not quite as deadly as the three mentioned above… But it’s still good enough to be in the league’s 94th percentile as of this writing. All this, again, per Cleaning the Glass.

And that’s with obvious room to improve as you have to remember… This current group is very young. That should do nothing but put a smile on your face, as it means they have nothing but room to grow.

With Morant back and Bane and Trip still hooping, the Grizzlies find themselves with sure footing. With still over two-thirds of the season left to go, that’s a damn good spot to be.

This team needs to play the guys that give them the best shot right now to win a title. And you may not like the answer… But I have three guys that need to be in the rotation. Ziaire Williams. David Roddy. And Santi Aldama.

Photo Credit: (Petre Thomas/USA TODAY Sports)

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