The Memphis Grizzlies have found their backup point guard.
Of course, Ja Morant and Marcus Smart will handle most of the touches in the backcourt, but Scotty Pippen Jr. could have a big role off the bench.
According to a report by Shams Charania of ESPN, the Grizzlies have finally signed him to a standard, guaranteed deal.
The Memphis Grizzlies are signing two-way guard Scotty Pippen Jr. on a standard multiyear NBA contract, sources tell ESPN. Pippen had an impressive finish to 2023-24 and a strong NBA Summer League and preseason. Now locks in a guaranteed new deal. pic.twitter.com/MuA3HsliKs
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 15, 2024
Pippen, who is represented by Rich Paul’s Klutch Sports, was quite impressive in limited action for them last season.
With Morant and Smart out late last season, he averaged roughly over 13 points and four assists per game in 21 appearances on a two-way deal.
He kept the momentum going by averaging 10 points and more than four assists in a contest in the NBA Summer League, making four appearances for them as well.
Granted, he’s not the kind of elite talent that his father, Scottie Pippen was, but you never want to measure yourself against a Hall of Famer and one of the greatest players to ever do it.
The Grizzlies know they can knock on the door of a deep postseason run this season if they’re healthy, and they will need a quality backup point guard to do so, just like they did with Tyus Jones years ago.
Morant missed most of last season with a suspension and an injury, and his reckless and uber-aggressive playing style will always be a concern, so it makes sense to add more depth at the position.
NEXT: NBA Insider Reveals What He's Hearing About Ja Morant This Season
