The Memphis Grizzlies are a disappointing 19-17 this season, and in an effort to regroup changed their starting lineup a while back. Here’s the Oklahoman reporting the latest on veteran power forward Zach Randolph, who has played 31 games this season but only started in 20 of them:
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The Memphis Grizzlies were throttled by 37 points in their last meeting against the Thunder. In that game, veteran Zach Randolph was a starter.
In 11 of the 14 games since that 125-88 blowout, however, the burly power forward has come off the bench for Memphis, as the Grizzlies have transitioned to a small ball lineup to start games. The Thunder’s small-ball efficiency in the two teams’ last matchup may have been a turning point for Memphis, as Matt Barnes has replaced Randolph as a starter at power forward.
“It’s not about you. If you feel a certain way and want to do something negative then you’re not professional,” Randolph told the Memphis Commercial Appeal about his role change. “I’m going to play and prove I can still do what I do.”
Since making the move to the bench, Randolph has shot 53 percent from the field in 25 minutes a game and is still finishing games. The Grizzlies, however, are only 5-6 in the latest string of non-starts for Randolph.
