The Memphis Grizzlies have unexpectedly parted methods with head coach Taylor Jenkins, regardless of the group sitting in fifth place within the Western Convention with a 44-29 file. This choice comes as a shock, particularly given Jenkins’ success in main the group to 3 postseason appearances since he took over in 2019. Sources revealed that Jenkins was knowledgeable of his firing on Friday morning, ending his six-season tenure with the Grizzlies.
Grizzlies common supervisor Zach Kleiman expressed appreciation for Jenkins’ contributions, stating, “I’m genuinely appreciative of Taylor’s contributions to this group and this metropolis over the previous six seasons. This was a troublesome choice, given the constant and tangible improvement of our gamers and general success below Taylor’s management. I want Taylor the perfect going ahead.”
Jenkins, 40, leaves Memphis with a 250-214 file, making him the franchise’s all-time winningest coach. His management helped the Grizzlies make the playoffs in 2021, 2022, and 2023, however accidents, together with Ja Morant’s strained hamstring, have hampered the group this season. The Grizzlies have gone 8-11 for the reason that All-Star break, resulting in questions concerning the timing of the choice. Memphis’ playoff hopes stay intact, however they’re in peril of dropping home-court benefit.
The Grizzlies’ odds to win the NBA Championship have dropped considerably, from +3000 on the All-Star break to as little as +9500, because the sudden firing raised eyebrows throughout the league. Memphis has struggled in current video games, together with a tough West Coast street journey, however Jenkins’ firing continues to be thought-about a surprising transfer, given the group’s playoff potential.
Jenkins’ departure follows a major overhaul of the teaching employees within the offseason, which included retaining solely two assistants from the earlier yr. This firing marks the top of a training period for Memphis, however with the group’s playoff future unsure, the Grizzlies will now search for a brand new chief to information them by the postseason.
READ MORE: Giddey’s Buzzer-Beater Leads Bulls to Stunning Victory
