How Luke Kennard’s Underutilized Arsenal Consolidates Bench

Three-point deadeye bench swing guard Luke Kennard has been attempting to make an immense imprint for the Memphis Grizzlies all season. A continued theme of lingering injuries and limited playing time has seeped into the 2024-25 campaign for Kennard. The eight-year veteran hasn’t quite made the significant splash the organization expected when they locked Kennard down to a one-year/$11-million-dollar extension back in July. In his defense, there hasn’t been much-speculated criticism over his inconsistent availability. On another note, the Grizzlies haven’t been in dire need of his shot-making and offensive gifts.

The Grizzlies lead the association in bench scoring. Kennard left a solid impression on those who follow the team with a keen eye after a very productive 18 minutes in a six-point road loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on Dec.15th. The Grizzlies’ supporting cast is built for a lengthy run in the Western Conference. Kennard’s additional veteran presence, marksmanship, and supplemental playmaking can exalt the secondary unit to another level.

How Grizzlies’ Luke Kennard’s Underutilized Arsenal Consolidates Bench

Memphis Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins spoke quite highly about Luke Kennard’s impact after their most recent game in Los Angeles. Here’s how he responded to a question regarding his decision to utilize Kennard at both on and off-guard positions. Furthermore, Luke Kennard’s offensive versatility off the bench.

Beyond Lukewarm Bench

Luke Kennard possesses a lot of qualities that translate well in the modern NBA offense. Very similar to fellow sharpshooter teammate Desmond Bane, Kennard is an underrated playmaker who uses his outside shot and pace, to exploit opposing coverages. Availability has been the sole reason the Grizzlies would entertain moving off the asset Kennard is. Given the flexibility and attraction of his contract deal, it wouldn’t be shocking if executives inquired about Kennard’s services as the trade deadline begins to loom.

Sniper Scope

Another rationale to consider when retaining Kennard past the deadline is his quick, established rapport with other valuable role pieces. Amongst all Grizzlies’ duo pairs to spend at least 150 minutes on the floor together (39 qualified pairings), Luke Kennard and Grizzlies stretch forward Santi Aldama hold the best net rating. Further down, Grizzlies swingman Jake LaRavia and Kennard also post the sixth-best net rating of the pairs. The most dynamic display of Kennard’s playmaking prowess and impact this season was in a November 10th road contest against the Portland Trailblazers. The former Blue Devil strung together three points, three rebounds, and 11 assists in 20 minutes. Kennard only attempted five shots in the 45-point blowout and posted one turnover. With Ja Morant and Desmond Bane, both sidelined that night, Kennard orchestrated a well-oiled machine off the bench.