GRIND CITY VIEWS: Tribute to Craig Sager, Memphis Grizzlies returns and more
Welcome to Grind City Views, the Beale Street Bears roundup of all Memphis Grizzlies-related news from all over the worldwide web.
The Memphis Grizzlies had Mike Conley return last game, and Chandler Parsons and James Ennis should be next. Coach Dave Fizdale honored long-time sideline reporter Craig Sager, after he lost his battle to cancer. Also a look at some records broken and more.
Coach Dave Fizdale pays tribute to Craig Sager
At the last time, Coach Fizdale honored Craig Sager by wearing a #SagerStrong t-shirt under his coat. Earlier that day, at shoot-around, he gave his condolences to the Sager family from the Memphis Grizzlies organization.
“I’d like to send my condolences out to Craig Seger’s family. Craig was an ambassador of the game for us. [And] he was obviously close to all of us and all of our hearts. His courage was unmatched in how he attacked cancer and how he helped other people. He always made me feel a lot better every time I was done talking to him. I just want to let his family know from our organization that he’ll be sorely missed, and we’ll continue to honor his legacy throughout the years.”
Classy move by Fizdale and the Memphis Grizzlies. The Beale Street Bears are continually praying for the Sager family during this time.
Chandler Parsons and James Ennis should be returning soon
“Forward Chandler Parsons, who has been out since Nov. 19 due to a bone bruise in his left knee, has also been upgraded to doubtful. Sources say Parsons’ return will likely come in the next week but not Friday night. Small forward James Ennis has been upgraded to probable after missing the past three weeks with a strained calf.”
This is good news for the Memphis Grizzlies. While Troy Daniels and Troy Williams have performed well, they’re missing their two best wings.
Mike Conley joins elite company
“Mike Conley is the 8th player in NBA history to lead a franchise in points, assists, and steals.”
Some notable players to accomplish this: LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Kevin Garnett, Reggie Miller, Gary Payton, Reggie Miller, (the original) Isaiah Thomas and Michael Jordan. Congratulations to the Conductor.
Marc Gasol has a fan in Zach Lowe [ESPN]
“Gasol is venturing a little out of his comfort zone as a shoot-first alpha dog, and he’s thriving. He remains a brilliant passer; he’s on pace for one of the highest assist rates ever from a big man. Gasol should be in the conversation for a No. 4 or No. 5 spot on MVP ballots.”
The Memphis Grizzlies wouldn’t be this far behind Gasol’s stellar play. He should be a lock for a spot on the All-Star team this year.
The Wade Baldwin needs some [Iowa] Energy
“Players have found success by waiting in the D-League. Look at how Hassan Whiteside has fared. Baldwin can take his time and although he’ll probably dominate like he was in his previous stint, it will allow him to get more shots up against a live defense and focus on taking better care of the ball. Baldwin could use the work and the Grizzlies can develop him while simultaneously concentrating on winning. It’s a win-win and something that they should strongly consider.”
Wade Baldwin returned to Iowa for another D-League stint. He scored 18 points on 7-for-18 shooting from the field (and 1-for-4 from downtown). In addition, he dished out 4 assists (against 5 turnovers) and was active on defense, picking up three steals.
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