The Memphis Grizzlies forward is 19 pounds heavier than he was last season. NBA.com’s Matt Winkeljohn writes that Gay sees increased strength as his ticket to superstardom. Grizzlies GM Chris Wallace is on board:
“When you become a big-league, cleanup-hitting small forward or shooting guard, you get to the [free-throw] line,” Wallace said. “You’re getting points, getting defenders in foul trouble and opponents into the bonus. That is the final frontier in being a great scorer. Most players like that are athletic, can handle in traffic, and have strength.”
Gay averaged 4.4 free-throw attempts a game last season, just 55th in the NBA and low for a go-to-scorer Gay averaged 4.4 free-throw attempts a game last season, just 55th in the NBA and low for a go-to-scorer. James (9.4) and Anthony (7.1) were there much more. …
The Grizzlies may see another upside in Gay’s upsizing. Wallace said he could play some power forward when coach Lionel Hollins goes with a small lineup and swaps Zach Randolph and/or Darrell Arthur out of that spot.
“Coach and I have actually talked a little bit about me playing the 4, kind of like Orlando with Rashard Lewis,” Gay said. “Although I’m a natural 3, I’ve moved all over. I played a little point [guard] with USA Basketball.”
