Memphis Grizzlies: Lionel Hollins Deserves Consideration for Coach of the Year

The Memphis Grizzlies have been a surprise in the early part of this NBA season. The team is 30-26 in the brutal Western Conference and its success has a lot to do with head coach Lionel Hollins.

Coach Hollins has put his stamp on the Grizzlies since his arrival in 2009.

Last season, the Grizzlies improved by winning 40 games compared to 25 in the previous year. This season, expectations were higher than usual due to the improvement and the potential of the Grizzlies' roster.

So far, this year has not been a cakewalk for Lionel Hollins.

Promising shooting guard O.J. Mayo was recently suspended 10 games for violating the NBA's drug policy, and prior to being suspended, Mayo's play on the court was not as consistent as in years past.

The Grizzlies also battled a slow start through the early part of the season, playing sub-.500 basketball during the months of October and November.

Hollins has battled with lineup issues at the shooting guard position. This season the Grizzlies have started four different players at the position due to the lack of consistency.

Through all of the turmoil and distractions, the coach has kept his team even keel on the hardwood.

Point guard Mike Conley has improved mightily under the direction of Hollins.

Conley is averaging career highs in points, assists and minutes played. His coach is also getting the best out of his role players. Players such as Sam Young, Tony Allen and Darrell Arthur have shown their worth this season as well.

Hollins has a strong NBA pedigree. He was a gritty player who combined his tough style with savvy and a high basketball IQ and this Grizzlies team is fast becoming an extension of its head coach.

However, Coach of the Year may be a long shot for Hollins. If the Grizzlies continue to improve, he at least deserves some recognition.

Memphis is in a small market compared to many other NBA franchises and a lot of NBA fans may not recognize the impact that Hollins has had on his team.

If the Grizzlies maintain their pace, they may have an opportunity to make the playoffs. Usually the Memphis Grizzlies are preparing for the draft lottery in the latter part of the season.

This season is a different story with Coach Hollins at the helm.