Will NBA’s shift to small-ball limit Z-Bo?
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Just how Grizzlies head coach David Fizdale rotates players on his front line will bear watching most of the 2016-17 season.
Training camp tips off Tuesday with the team’s first practice under Fizdale. The Grizzlies’ depth at power forward is worth noting in this latest position-by-position examination. Zach Randolph is an All-Star, but he’s 35 and there are 20-somethings behind him. There might be questions about whether Randolph will continue to start. During his introductory press conference, though, Fizdale indicated he would rely heavily on the core four of Marc Gasol, Mike Conley, Tony Allen and Randolph. But this position could present a fluid situation.
Projected starter: Randolph. Conventional wisdom suggests that Randolph likely will have a reduced role whether or not he starts. The recent reduction in minutes is partly due to the NBA’s shift to stretch fours and small-ball lineups. However, there is no doubt that Z-Bo is still a go-to scorer on the low block and a respectable rebounder at his position. He passes well out of double teams and can earn trips to the foul line late in close games.
Returners: JaMychal Green. Fizdale asked Green to participate in summer league in part because Fizdale wanted Green to experience leadership. Green accepted the invitation so he could become more familiar with Fizdale, and work on his 3-point shooting and refine his midrange game. Think stretch four. Green, a 6-8 forward, is entering his third season with the Grizzlies. After appearing in 78 games last season, Green is working to earn a long-term contract with the Griz. Team management points to Green’s athleticism and activity level being essential. Second-year forward Jarell Martin has been cleared to resume full court activities heading into camp, according to an injury report on the team’s website. Martin underwent a procedure to alleviate left foot soreness on April 22.
Newcomers: Chandler Parsons likely will start at small forward but is expected to play power forward when the Griz use small-ball lineups. His shooting at the position would increase the team’s scoring and open up the paint for the Griz-