Memphis Grizzlies: Marc Gasol Proving to Be an Offensive Star

The first two Grizzlies games may not be representative of the rest of the season, but they can certainly show us who has improved and in what ways.

From those two games, it has become apparent that Marc Gasol hit the gym and practiced his offensive moves during the offseason. Whether it has been hitting jumpers, driving in the lane, or even passing it out to a teammate, Gasol has shown a vast improvement in versatility on the offensive side.

While this is certainly a good sign, some are wondering how this will affect the team's chemistry. Memphis has shown that it is trying to run its offense down in the post, which it should. When you have the bench and the talent that the Grizzlies do at the frontcourt positions, you need to capitalize on it.

However, this focus down low ignores the problem that the Grizzlies have: Their backcourt players haven't been as productive. Whether it be in terms of three-point shooting or overall play, Conley, Allen and the entire backcourt bench need to step it up. 

Of course, their lack of production could be because it is just the beginning of the season. But it still doesn't bode well that there hasn't been an improvement from last year.

But let's get back to Marc.

I have always said that he is at least a top 10 center. But if he can keep up this streak he is on now, there is no reason to think that he couldn't be in the top five. There are very few big guys as offensively and defensively balanced as Marc Gasol.

While the focus might be on Rudy Gay and Zach Randolph as the offensive powerhouses, don't count out Gasol. He has the talent and the drive to potentially be the No. 1 option for the Grizzlies.

His rebounding and blocks will rise to previous levels, but it is time for teams to start treating him like he is an offensive star. Mostly because he is turning into one.

The Grizzlies will go as far as Marc can carry them.