Even before the Memphis Grizzlies’ season fizzled in a four-game, first-round sweep at the hands of the Phoenix Suns, it had become apparent that changes would need to be made.
As the NBA free agent signing period begins on July 22, nothing has changed.
Memphis’ top two court generals — Earl Watson and Jason Williams — could be MIA next season.
Their bounding big man, Stromile Swift, will officially join the Houston Rockets the first day free agents can sign deals July 22.
It’s unlikely that the Grizzlies will pick up an option on Bonzi Wells.
Even home-grown fan favorite Lorenzen Wright, who is displeased with the team’s apathy toward renewing his contract, has suggested a trade would be best for all involved.
With all this movement and just a $5 million midlevel exception to spend on free agency, Memphis needed a big draft to help fill the holes.
They got it.
The Grizzlies entered the 2005 draft with just one pick — 19th overall — and left with two players who could contribute quickly.
With their original pick, Memphis selected Syracuse senior Hakim Warrick.
The local boys later acquired another impact player from Seattle for two future second round draft picks: Mississippi State senior Lawrence Roberts (No. 55).
Even if the draftees are relative gray beards compared to the majority of their counterparts, their college experience gives them an advantage early in their careers.
And each has plenty to draw from.
Warrick won a national championship. In the 2003 championship game against Kansas, he came out of nowhere to block Michael Lee’s last-second three-pointer and preserved an 81-78 victory. He was named Big East Player of the Year in 2004-2005 and also was a consensus first-team All-American. As a junior, he received second team All-American from ESPN.com and The Sporting News.
Roberts was the SEC player of the year in 2004, averaging 16.9 points and 10.1 rebounds. Last year, he garnered All-SEC honors and posted a similar statistical season, holding steady on points but bumping his rebounding to 11.0. The 6-9, 240-pounder muscled his way to 20 double-doubles in 32 games last season.
But it’s not what they’ve done that should excite the Grizzlies, it’s what they’re capable of doing.
Warrick might be the best jumper in the draft and immediately becomes the Grizzlies best pure athlete. Warrick could quickly replace Stromile’s production and athleticism. In one game last year, Hakim dunked from a flat footed position about five feet away from the basket. As if that isn’t hard enough, he did it over a defender.
Roberts is a winner and another Player of the Year from a major conference. The fact that he slipped to No. 55 borders on ridiculous. What he gives is something Memphis desperately needs — rebounding and toughness. He could easily pull down 10 boards a game with enough playing time. At 6-9 and 240 pounds he’s got plenty to work with.
Both guys are big impact players. But if you don’t want to take my word for it, consider what they’ve done in the NBA Summer Pro League.
It’s reserved exclusively for young and developmental players and is a good gauge for rookies to see where they stand among their peers.
At times, Warrick and Roberts have been dominant.
In a game against the Mavericks last week, Warrick scored 19 points and added 14 rebounds. Roberts had a monster game, pouring home 31 points and ripping down 13 boards.
Without help during free agency, Memphis could be thin at point guard, but the draft added plenty of front court help.
