NBA Summer League: Memphis Grizzlies vs. Cleveland Cavaliers Preview

Both the Grizzlies and Cavaliers have an exciting young core, a two-way unicorn, an interior partner who helps dominate the paint, an exciting point guard, and an elite two-guard. They also lack a true 3&D wing with size that would immediately elevate them to new heights. While the much anticipated first regular season matchup awaits, their Summer League game will serve as an intriguing appetizer.

When: Monday, July 10, 5:00 PM Central

Where: Cox Pavilion, Las Vegas, Nevada

How to Watch/Stream: ESPNNEWS, ESPN+

What To Watch For

Will the real David Roddy please stand up?

Or is he already standing? Look, I know a lot of Grizzlies fans love Big Body Roddy. His defensive upside is clear. But the only thing drier than the Las Vegas heat is David Roddy’s shot. In his three Summer League games, he’s averaging a disappointing 11.3 points on 29.4% shooting from the field and 31.5% from deep. Not good.

Many expect Roddy to step up this season and play impactful minutes at the 3. That only happens if his offensive game improves. He’ll never be a good iso-scorer. His jump shot and space creation aren’t good enough. But he’s even struggling to create separation when attacking the rim, which allows his shot to be blocked too often.

Never will I root against a player – unless it’s Chris Paul. David Roddy becoming the future starting 3 on a championship-winning Memphis Grizzlies team would be amazing. But I can’t be the only one worried about him offensively.

King Kenny Lofton Jr.

There are some dudes who look natural with the basketball, regardless of size or height. Kenneth Lofton Jr. is 100% one of them hoopers. Silky smooth with the handle. Light on his feet when needed. Bruiser down low who plays with control. Effortless jumper that looks good as soon as it leaves his hand. Vision to find the open man. Defensive IQ to beat his man to the spot.

Junior’s got it.

We know his deficiencies. One can only hope he gets his body to a more sustainable place that allows him to reach his high ceiling. Junior’s true position is still unknown, as well. Is he a 6’7″ center with Z-Bo’s vertical? What about a point forward who can play on the perimeter, play-make, and post-up? For fringe guys like Lofton Jr., having a defining role in the NBA is usually the difference between a long and short NBA career.

Those questions make it almost impossible to predict Kenneth Lofton Jr.’s NBA future. But at this moment in time…Who cares? The man is hoopin’. Let’s enjoy it.

Prediction: Memphis 90, Cleveland 85.

David Roddy shuts me up. GG Jackson keeps it going. Jake bounces back after 1-8 from three against the Bulls. Keep an eye on Jacob Gilyard as well.