The Memphis Grizzlies traded a fan favorite this year. Could they bring him back?
The Memphis Grizzlies' roster is in a constant state of flux.
That's what happens after an endless parade of injuries. Everyone knows Ja Morant has been hurt, but it doesn't end there. Take a glance at the Grizzlies' depth chart:
You're going to see an awful lot of "Os".
It's been a weird year in Memphis. Expectations are understandably low. Some want the Grizzlies to tank, others are content to see the young guys compete. This organization could justify almost any decision this year.
Should they bring back fan favorite Vince Williams Jr.?
Life hasn't been easy for Williams Jr. in the NBA. He's been plagued by injuries. That said, it's been harder for him since he left Memphis.
His best NBA season came in Grind City. In 2023-24, he averaged 10.0 points per game while shooting 37.8% from deep in 53 games. Unfortunately, those are all career highs.
His three-point shooting has fluctuated. In his career, he's shooting 32.2% from distance. That's suboptimal, but above all else, injuries have held him back. That's why we're speculating about his availability. The Grizzlies traded him to Utah this year, he got hurt (again), and the Jazz waived him.
Should the Grizzlies bring him back?
Memphis wouldn't be bringing Williams Jr. back for the season. They'd be stashing him ahead of 2026-27.
Two questions emerge. They're closely related:
Why? And why not?
Why blow a roster spot on a limited offensive wing who can't stay healthy? Williams Jr. isn't much of a shot creator. He's already 26. Where is the value in a signing?
Well, he'll be exceedingly cheap. Williams Jr. would surely agree to a minimum given his current stock. Yet, even a minimum player needs to provide some type of on-court value. This feels like the right time to talk about the other end of the floor.
Williams Jr. is an excellent defender. He's both aggressive and disciplined. He can guard multiple positions, and he never quits on a possession.
If Williams Jr. remains healthy and regains his 2023-24 three-point shooting, his production at a minimum-salary contract could represent significant surplus value. Having a versatile defender on a bargain deal gives Memphis valuable roster flexibility or an enticing trade asset. These cost-effective contracts can be crucial for teams aiming to contend.
Hopefully, that would be as often as possible.