Is Junior the key to the Grizzlies' Playoff Success in 2023?

[jman3134]

It could be that they don't have enough confidence to play him in big minutes, at least initially. It is a huge jump, moving from the G League to the NBA playoffs. But, Junior gets baskets. It is hard to deny him.

I could easily see Junior playing a major role for this team, with Adams out. I'm not sure how it will work defensively, but I expect him to save our season and help us to advance far in these playoffs.

Does anyone have a similar hope? Or is it going to be Tillman and co., as it was for much of last year's playoffs? I don't see how KLJ doesn't play over Tillman at least.

[psman2]

I hope we see a lot of KLJ, because that will mean we are up 20 points in the 4th a lot. It would almost be unprecedented for him to get minutes in a tight game after playing so few minutes with the big club this year. Maybe he does get some minutes if the coach thinks he has some mismatch on the floor and his playing time can increase with good play, or an injury occurs forcing more minutes on him. As of right now I think he is likely closer to a DNP than any type of key.

[VCfor3]

I think it'll be mostly Tillman and others getting minutes, but KLJ will likely have at least a game or two where he plays critical minutes to keep us afloat while JJJ is on the bench with foul trouble.

[esvl]

Yes, Lofton looks like he is ready. The talent and instincts were always there. He needed to know his role and his limitations. He got there. JJJ and Tillman will play against true bigs, but those teams who decide to play small-ball against us will get Lofton - who would be a total mismatch for most opponents due to his unique combination of speed, footwork, physicality and weight.

[SD2042]

I think KLJ will see some minutes in the paint. Given this will be his first playoff game, I'm sure the Grizzlies will be careful about his minutes. As long as KLJ keeps his cool and brings his game one possession at a time on both ends, that will help his confidence and the Grizzlies chances to win games in the playoffs.

[jman3134]

So far the answer is no haha.

[VCfor3]

It'll be interesting to see what the game plan is moving forward especially if Ja is out. KLJ may get some minutes to help with the rebounding if it goes poorly again.

[vanjulio]

So far the answer is no haha.

Yep we didn't see him in game1 it's pretty funny but with Ja out in game2 potentially someone has more minutes off the bench - who does that go to now? The funny thing I can't believe to see a team like the Lakers and imagine Kenny Lofton Jr may be one of the most mature players out there in the playoffs! These arent' your grandpas Showtime Lakers any more! Let the G Leaguers duel it out !

[VCfor3]

Maybe he'll play some garbage time at some point (though hopefully that is because we are blowing them out and not the other way around).