NBA Memphis Grizzlies

Memphis Grizzlies’ Marc Gasol Has Transformed Into the NBA’s Best Center

Fresh Videos

By @The_Only_Grubes

Memphis Grizzlies

Joe Murphy/Getty Images

Memphis Grizzlies center Marc Gasol is a legitimate threat to be the NBA‘s most improved player, and that is saying something considering he has already established himself as a star in this league.

In the Grizzlies’ 105-101 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves Wednesday night, Gasol put up monster numbers, scoring 32 points on 12-of-17 shooting to go along with nine rebounds, three assists, two steals and two blocks. That is a full stat line, and one that is not impossible for Gasol to repeat multiple times this season.

Gasol dropped a considerable amount of weight over the offseason, and it showed during the preseason and in the Grizzlies’ first game this year. Gasol is a much more mobile big man now, capable of affecting the game in more ways than he was able to before. With Gasol being able to move up and down the floor quickly, the Grizzlies can run a fast-paced offense, something head coach Dave Joerger has wanted to do since he became the leader of the Grizzlies. Gasol has always been skilled in that he can pass the ball effectively while being able to score inside and out to complement his interior defensive presence, but now that Gasol can be a threat in transition and on lob plays in the half court, there is no telling how many more scoring opportunities Gasol can get in the flow of the offense.

Zach Randolph was a force for the Grizzlies on offense, but Gasol may end up being their most productive player on both ends of the floor this season due to his new-found athleticism. Gasol is ready to have a monster season, and if he can continue to take his game to another level, then Memphis may finally get over the hump and get to the NBA Finals.

Nathan Grubel is an NBA writer for Rant Sports. Follow him on Twitter @The_Only_Grubes, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.

Share Tweet
Trending Now on