The title-focused Memphis Grizzlies are attempting to keep their blinders on throughout the NBA season, when trade rumors fly about the talking group chats like leaves in the wind. For the most part, head coach Taylor Jenkins has been able to keep his team focused on the goals: wins and growth, both individually and as a team. But as the NBA Trade Deadline draws near, there is a lot of conjecture and planning for possible roster changes.
However, at the halfway point of the season, Jenkins and the Grizzlies are only managing what they can. The front office handles the rest. Jenkins told ClutchPoints that it doesn’t really matter what else happens in the league.
Jenkins said, “We are just focused on ourselves every single day.” “Everyone is dealing with the rumors and speculation at this time of year. No excuses should be made. Everyone is performing according to the same timetable.
Professionals shouldn’t let outside noise interfere with their ability to perform on the court. That hypothesis was put to the test when they visited Madison Square Garden and lost badly to the New York Knicks, 145-106. Jenkins won’t become too irate about a single blip, though. Despite all of the ailments, the Grizzlies (31-16) are playing remarkably well.
Jenkins remarked, “I’m proud of the work our guys have been doing.” Aside from the trade deadline, we can deal with it later. Together with (GM Zach Kleiman), we can resolve those issues. I adore the group’s current performance. The daily progress, with new men taking the initiative. Every night, we have to win baseball games in various ways. Our everyday progress, both offensively and defensively, is the only thing being considered. Right now, the only thing we can really concentrate on is our competitiveness each and every night.
The business aspect of the industry is not a concern for the Grizzlies. The focus in the locker room is on how they can get better with each practice and game, not on who might join or depart. Jenkins observes it in action, particularly when cars are in the parking lot long before planes take off or practice begins.
“Very beneficial practice time, particularly since we have a lot of games left and are packing up.” Jenkins clarified, “Many guys want to come in the mornings and get ready for opponents.” “If you put in a full 48 minutes, that usually translates (to wins).”
Under Jenkins, the Grizzlies are focused on seizing the day’s potential and are not sidetracked. They’re handling the NBA rumor mill with a commendable and realistic approach. They are establishing a franchise standard for handling distractions and setbacks by focusing on the things they can control: communication, effort, and preparedness. Taylor Jenkins and the Grizzlies continue to demonstrate that being focused on the game, play by play, is the best way to deal with uncertainty as the trade deadline approaches.
