Rudy Gay, Memphis Grizzlies: Can the Team Still Make the Playoffs Without Him?
In recent news, Rudy Gay suffered a shoulder injury that puts him on the shelf for at least four weeks. Shoulder injuries are very gentle injuries that can become a recurring problem. It would be best if Gay took his time to heal 100 percent.
Without Gay in the lineup, the Grizzlies lose a lot of scoring and athleticism. Gay is a legitimate threat on the offensive end of the court.
The Grizzlies have strong playoff aspirations this season. They will be fighting for a playoff spot in the lethal Western Conference. Playing in the West, winning 50 games is the ideal number for making the playoffs.
However, the playoffs are still a strong possibility for the Memphis Grizzlies. Players such as Marc Gasol, Mike Conley and O.J. Mayo (if not traded) have to step up and answer the call.
Mayo is more than capable of bearing the scoring load. If Mayo is still in a Grizzlies uniform, this may give him a chance to come back to good graces with the organization.
The injury to Gay may benefit Gasol the most. Gasol is one of the most efficient players in the NBA. Gasol puts up pretty good numbers, despite receiving a limited amount of touches.
In this stage of Gay's career, he is more of a one-dimensional player who only plays offense. I'm not saying that Memphis will not miss him, but it is more of a challenge when replacing someone that has an all-around game.
Coach Lionel Hollins will devise a plan that will enable his team to play to the best of their ability. This is one of the most brutal points in the season because there are several teams trying to get over the hump to make the playoffs.
The trade deadline is approaching and I think it would make sense to stand pat. A quick trade may not be the answer in the long run for the Grizzlies.
It is best for Gay to use the four weeks to regain his health, and to trust his teammates. Memphis is a team that has faced a lot of adversity this season. There is no need to hit the panic button as of now.
