Zach Kleiman Acknowledges Grizzlies 'Not Close' After Disappointing Season
The Memphis Grizzlies face significant organizational decisions this offseason following their first-round playoff sweep by the Oklahoma City Thunder and the pre-playoff dismissal of head coach Taylor Jenkins.
Zach Kleiman, the team's Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations, delivered a candid assessment of the team's status, emphasizing that despite winning 48 games, the organization has fallen short of expectations and requires substantial changes.
"I don't think we can look back at this series and this season and say, 'Oh, we're close,'" Kleiman said. "No, we're not close. There's a lot of work to be done."
The Grizzlies have managed just one playoff series victory with their core trio of Ja Morant, Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr., though the team is expected to sign Jackson to a contract extension this offseason, maintaining contractual stability with the group.
Memphis now faces a crucial coaching decision after interim coach Tuomas Iisalo finished the season following Jenkins' firing. Iisalo is reportedly among the candidates for the permanent position, though Kleiman indicated no immediate decision has been made.
Kleiman's blunt assessment signals a potential shift in approach as the team evaluates how to maximize its championship window with its current core. His statements suggest the front office believes fundamental changes—potentially beyond just the coaching position—might be necessary to elevate Memphis into true contention.
"Disappointing season," Kleiman stated. "A lot to sort through here. Forty-eight wins, good for an eight seed, but who cares? It's not good enough."