The Memphis Grizzlies lost a dynamic power forward last year to a partial MCL tear. Zach Randolph was sidelined in an early-season game against the Bulls. What followed was a 38-game stretch that forced the Grizzlies to progress through a tough conference without one of their stars.
With Marc Gasol and Mike Conley leading Memphis in practically every major statistical category last year, the Grizzlies surprised many. Even with Randolph injured for more than half of a 66-game season, the Grizzlies marched on to the tune of a 41-25 record. Facing the Clippers, the Grizzlies fell in the first round of the play-offs.
Randolph was back after 38 games, but he wasn’t the same. Able to sustain just 26 minutes of game time (after averaging 36 mins the last 6 years), Randolph didn’t seem to be completely back to form. With the MCL tear seemingly affecting his first step and jumping ability, he couldn’t initiate his offense as easily. As a result, Randolph looked more like a stalwart in the Memphis offense.
Though he couldn’t take his defenders to the rim as frequently as usual, Randolph only averaged 2 less free throws per game last year (3) than the season before (5). Unfortunately, he shot a career low 65.9% from the line, after averaging 77.5% for the last six seasons.
As the Grizzlies were sent home in the first round, Randolph decided to completely shut down. The plan was to stay off the court until he pain free. As a result, Randolph initiated his work in the offseason in August, a month later than usual.
“Being hurt and not being able to move how you want to move and have that second jump … It was real frustrating. I wanted to make sure my knee healed before I did a lot of movement.”
Via the Commercial Appeal.
Randolph did his offseason work with Frank Matrisciano, the University of Memphis strength coach. Following a regimen known as “chameleon training”, Randolph went through workouts that involved nearly every muscle in his body.
“We’ve got a more confident Z-Bo, a healthier Z-Bo and that’s scary for a lot of teams,” guard Tony Allen said. “I’m just glad he’s on my team.”
Via Commercial Appeal.
The team sees Randolph to be back to perform, perhaps even better. With Memphis going into a season following a season most non-Memphians saw as a fluke, they’ll need Randolph to be back to 100%
[ H/T to Ronald Tillery of the Commercial Appeal ]
Mohamed Abdihakim is a journalism student at Florida Atlantic University. He is a Phoenix Suns fan, who is not prepared for the possibility of Nash winning a title in a Lakers jersey. Mohamed is also a contributor at “Les Snobs”. Interests include International basketball, Mad Men, and blues music. Nearly all stats are credited to Hoopdata or Basketball-Reference.
Twitter handle: @Abdi_hakim
