He balances out Jenkins' personality and tactical side. Jenkins is the calmer presence who throws a bevvy of defensive coverages and schemes at opponents, while Rajakovic instills confidence in the offense by emphasizing playing with swagger.
The Grizzlies (56-26) have gone from a fringe playoff team to championship contender in one season, and Rajakovic's hands are all over the leap.
"I rely on Darko so much," Jenkins said. "He's got a passion for the game, he's got so much energy. It's everything from how he handles player development, from film work, how he attacks opponent's scouting."
Bane was told about Rajakovic's reputation as a player development coach and saw it for himself in summer league. Rajakovic pushed Bane to become stronger with the ball in more of a playmaking role. The growing pains were there, but Memphis reaped the benefits in stretches when Ja Morant or Tyus Jones weren't available, and Bane became the No. 2 point guard. Now Bane's offensive skillset features pull-up 3-pointers, off-the-dribble midrange jumpers, hard cuts and pick-and-roll playmaking.
Williams had more of an in-season improvement. He struggled and looked lost during his first three months as a rookie. He spent time with Rajakovic in film sessions as well as shooting. Williams has turned into one of the Grizzlies' better 3-point shooters and will be one of the X-factors during the postseason.
"Darko just doesn't care who you are, what your role is on the team," Williams said. "He just wants you to be the best you possibly can be. That's what I love him about the most."
Williams has hidden his frustration when he has struggled this season. Sometimes he gets visibly upset on his face or will hit a wall after a disappointing game, but other times he tries to hide it. Rajakovic has worked with Williams so much that he can get the rookie out of those mental slumps.
"He honestly reads them really well," Williams said. "I don't know what it is that Darko reads about me, but he senses it every time."
https://www.commercialappeal.com/story/sports/nba/grizzlies/2022/04/12/darko-rajakovic-big-reason-memphis-grizzlies-player-development/9514839002/
