With Marcus Smart returning vs Pelicans, Memphis Grizzlies make starting lineup change
The Memphis Grizzlies are playing their best basketball of the season in the last three games, and now more help has arrived. Marcus Smart is making his return to the lineup on Tuesday against the New Orleans Pelicans after missing the past 17 games.
Smart averaged 12.5 points and five assists before being sidelined by a left foot sprain. He was also near the top of the NBA leaderboards in steals during the first 11 games.
Smart will be back in the starting lineup and will have the opportunity to play alongside of Ja Morant and Desmond Bane for the first time this season. The trio gives the Grizzlies three starters capable of generating good offensive looks for teammates.
Memphis (9-19) is moving Vince Williams Jr. to a reserve role in response to Smart being back. Williams has given the Grizzlies a spark with his shooting, rebounding and defensive tenacity. He's still expected to play a large role after averaging seven points and seven rebounds in six starts.
"I'm really proud of what Vince has done," Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins said after Saturday's win against the Atlanta Hawks. "He'll be embracing whatever role is necessary. His competitive fire, I thought he's doing a great job. Obviously guys are going to still score, but he's trying to make it as tough as possible."
Jaren Jackson Jr. and Bismack Biyombo will continue to start in the frontcourt to round out the starting five.
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This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Marcus Smart's return leads to a Grizzlies starting lineup change
