Memphis Grizzlies 2023-24 schedule: Five Takeaways from the First Half

Memphis Grizzlies' 2023-24 season is much different than expected, with injuries and a changing roster. Bright spots and growing pains.

The halfway point of the 2023-24 season for the Memphis Grizzlies has been marked by unexpected challenges and changes. With a record of 15-26, the team has faced significant lineup changes, injuries to key players, and uncertainty about the future of the season. Despite these obstacles, there have been notable developments and takeaways from the first half of the season.

The Grizzlies have had to adapt to a series of injuries, resulting in 23 different starting lineups in the first 41 games, the second-most in the NBA. Star players Ja Morant and Steven Adams are out for the season, while Desmond Bane and Marcus Smart are also sidelined with injuries. Jaren Jackson Jr. has stepped up to carry a significant load in the absence of key players, scoring 36 points in a recent game against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

One positive takeaway from the season has been the strong results from a small sample size of games. During a nine-game stretch when Ja Morant was on the court, the team showed promise with a 6-3 record, including wins against playoff contenders. Marcus Smart and Desmond Bane demonstrated their abilities, providing hope for the team's future success.

Vince Williams Jr., a second-round draft pick from VCU, has emerged as a standout player, contributing to the team's defense and showing potential as a playmaker. However, the overall picture of the team's young players remains unclear, with several prospects still needing to prove themselves as core members of the team.

Veterans Derrick Rose and Marcus Smart have provided leadership and impact despite injuries, with Rose being vocal and influential, and Smart earning the respect of his teammates through his honesty and guidance.

Despite high hopes for an improved offense, the Grizzlies have struggled with offensive issues, ranking 29th in the NBA in offensive rating, field goal percentage, and 3-point percentage. The team's injuries have limited their offensive potential, and younger players expected to boost the team's shooting have not delivered strong results.

As the Grizzlies navigate the challenges of the 2023-24 season, they continue to learn and adapt, gaining insight into the future of the team and the organization. While the season has not unfolded as expected, there are still opportunities for growth and development as the team looks ahead to the second half of the season and beyond.