Memphis Grizzlies eye major changes after their 2024-25 playoff exit. A new coach is in, and Zach Kleiman hints at big trades. What's next for Memphis?
StatPro NBA Beat Reporter
Thursday, June 5th, 2025, wasn't just another quiet offseason day for the Memphis Grizzlies. It was a day buzzing with the distinct hum of impending change. Following a frustrating first-round playoff exit to the Oklahoma City Thunder, the organization isn't just licking its wounds; it's actively sharpening its claws for a transformative summer, starting with a new head coach and Executive VP Zach Kleiman's stark admission that the current squad is 'not close' to true contention.
The current roster is 'not close' to contention and that all options are on the table to improve the team.
The biggest concrete news is the arrival of a new head coach for the 2025-26 season. While details on the new hire are still emerging, the move signals a clear desire for a new direction after the playoff flameout. The expectation is a shift towards a more dynamic offense emphasizing pace, movement, and high-efficiency looks, while crucially aiming to maintain the team's gritty defensive identity. Executive VP Zach Kleiman's public statements indicate an open-minded approach to further changes, underscoring the urgency felt within the organization to return to elite status.
The defensive decline late in the 2024-25 season, culminating in the playoff loss, has clearly been identified as a major concern. Rumors are swirling, and they're pointing directly at New Orleans Pelicans forward Herb Jones. With the Pelicans (a dismal 21-61 last season) reportedly open to moving key pieces, the Grizzlies see an opportunity to acquire an elite perimeter defender. This pursuit makes sense given the team's need to bolster its wing defense. Marcus Smart's expiring contract is also a significant talking point, potentially being the key piece in a 'needle-mover' trade this summer. Kleiman's 'all options are on the table' mantra certainly applies here as Memphis seeks to address its defensive shortcomings.
While the core of Ja Morant (23.2 PPG, 8.1 APG), Jaren Jackson Jr. (22.2 PPG, 8.0 RPG), and Desmond Bane (19.2 PPG, 7.1 RPG) put up solid numbers and led the team to a 48-34 record and the 8th seed, their five seasons together have yielded only one playoff series win. Questions about their collective ability to elevate the team to championship contention are louder than ever, especially after the late-season slide and first-round exit. Health remains paramount after a season previously derailed by injuries. On the fringes, there's a growing call from analysts and fans for John Konchar to see a larger, more consistent role due to his impactful play. With two second-round picks in the upcoming draft, the Grizzlies will likely look to add depth or find versatile two-way players.
Though no game was played on June 5th, the echoes of the season's end still resonate. Finishing 48-34 and second in the Southwest Division looks decent on paper, but the first-round exit against the Oklahoma City Thunder stung. The team's once-vaunted defense showed significant cracks late in the season, particularly on the perimeter, which has become the clear focus of the offseason improvement plan. The Grizzlies do not possess a first-round pick in the upcoming draft, making savvy trades and smart use of their two second-round selections even more critical for roster enhancement.
One thing is crystal clear: the Memphis Grizzlies are not content with the status quo. With a new coach at the helm and Zach Kleiman signaling a proactive and potentially aggressive offseason, fans should buckle up. The summer of 2025 promises to be a pivotal one in shaping the next era of Grizzlies basketball, as they search for the missing pieces to truly contend in a loaded Western Conference.
