OKC Thunder TIP3 queries site expert from Beale Street Bears

TI Q1- The Fizdale – Gasol files:

Let’s address the elephant in the room.  After last year’s playoffs the “take that for data” Head Coach David Fizdale seemed destined for a long tenure in Memphis. That one podium speech alone showcased a coach standing up for his team and fanbase.

Moving into the offseason the Memphis powers that be deemed it was time to transition from their slow pace to the modern era of run and gun. This strategy was in direct contrast to the Grizzlies grit and grind identity.  Seemingly the franchise was committed as they let long term mainstays Zach Randolph and Tony Allen exit without offers in free agency as well as Vince Carter. Clearly, the mandate was to move toward integrating youthful assets and building around the two remaining core pieces of Mike Conley and Marc Gasol.

Moving on from Fizdale:

Flash forward to November 26 with Conley sidelined due to an Achilles injury and the Grizzlies on a seven game losing streak. Memphis was losing to the Brooklyn Nets and Fizdale benched Gasol either presumably to send a message or because he was looking for a unit who could produce the win. The Grizzlies lost, Gasol publicly complained and the next day Fizdale was fired.

This situation lends itself to numerous questions as now Gasol is forever married to Fizdale’s firing. But, there were conflicting reports on his relationship with the roster. Some reports indicated Fizdale was a great guy publicly, but not necessarily respected behind closed doors. And, Gasol who was viewed as a friendly giant with occasional humorous displays like his Conor McGregor march off the floor is suddenly being questioned as a potential locker room problem.

Just like with any argument there are two sides to every story. Can you clear up where the truth lies and why Memphis ownership can’t seem to retain coaches. (Fizdale was the third coach fired in six years).

Fleming offers his take on Fizdale, Gasol conundrum:

It was obvious from the beginning that the Gasol and Fizdale relationship wasn’t ideal. Fizdale made immediate changes to a team to improve the culture — when it was already good enough. He did expand Marc’s game, which led to his All-Star year.

However, you can always tell that Fizdale was never really satisfied with his game. The benching was the final straw for Fizdale though. You don’t bench your best player when down five to Brooklyn at home — especially in a long losing streak. However, it looks like coaching isn’t the issue, and it’ll be interesting to see how the Grizzlies front office manages it.