Chapter 198: Divine Fadeaway.
As blockbuster trades were being announced across the league, the Grizzlies weren't idle either. Like many defending champions, they signed several veteran players on minimum contracts.
One notable addition was Grant Hill.
Yes, that Grant Hill—the original heir to Jordan from his Pistons days, whose career was derailed by injuries.
Nearing 40, he was still a starter for the Suns last season, averaging 10.2 points and 3.5 rebounds per game.
With Steve Nash heading east and the Suns rebuilding, Hill wasn't going to stay. This season, he'd compete with Dahntay Jones for playing time.
The Grizzlies also brought in Shaun Livingston as their third-string point guard.
Jordan Crawford was more of a scorer, and the Grizzlies had a trend of stockpiling pass-first point guards over the years, like Jason Williams and Mike Bibby.
Livingston might not have their experience, but he came into the league with the lofty nickname 'The Next Magic Johnson,' boasting elite playmaking skills.
Due to injury concerns, his market value had plummeted after last season. But as the Grizzlies' third guard? Worth a shot.
...
By the time free agency wrapped up, the Grizzlies had patched up their roster quite well.