Grizzlies Giving Former First-Round Pick Taylor Hendricks a Second Chance

The 22-year-old forward has shown defensive versatility and potential to help Memphis during their playoff push.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 1:58am

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The Memphis Grizzlies are giving former first-round pick Taylor Hendricks a chance to showcase his talents after a rocky start to his NBA career. Hendricks, 22, has impressed with his defensive versatility and disruptive play, averaging 13 points, 4.7 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game over the last few weeks. Head coach Tuomas Iisalo has praised Hendricks' ability to impact the game even when his shot isn't falling, and the Grizzlies see him as a foundational frontcourt piece moving forward.

Why it matters

Hendricks' emergence comes at a crucial time for the Grizzlies, who are looking to halt an eight-game slide and solidify their playoff positioning. His defensive versatility and ability to play multiple positions provide valuable flexibility for a roster dealing with injuries and roster instability. If Hendricks can continue to develop, he could help fill the void left by the absence of star Jaren Jackson Jr. and provide a boost for the Grizzlies' playoff push.

The details

In a recent win over the Denver Nuggets, Hendricks showcased his disruptive potential, recording 13 points, six steals, and three blocks against three-time MVP Nikola Jokic. While he struggled from three-point range, going 1-for-10, Iisalo praised Hendricks' ability to impact the game in other ways. The coach noted that Hendricks' willingness to 'play through mistakes' has allowed him to thrive, as the Grizzlies have given him the latitude to develop and learn on the job.

  • Hendricks has averaged 13 points, 4.7 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game since February 23.

The players

Taylor Hendricks

A 22-year-old forward who was a former first-round pick and is now getting an opportunity to showcase his defensive versatility and potential with the Memphis Grizzlies.

Tuomas Iisalo

The head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies, who has praised Hendricks' ability to impact the game and has given him the chance to 'play through mistakes' as he develops.

Nikola Jokic

The three-time NBA MVP whose Denver Nuggets team Hendricks and the Grizzlies defeated in a recent game.

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What they’re saying

“It's our communication from the bench. It's telling each other that the only way to get better is to finish games.”

— Taylor Hendricks

“Taylor has been great. It's one of the things that really has not surprised us, but just the ability that he has with his wingspan. He is really disruptive. (Hendricks) is able to pressure smaller guards and big guys while still holding his own physically, being able to rebound his position.”

— Tuomas Iisalo, Head Coach

What’s next

The Grizzlies will continue to rely on Hendricks' defensive versatility and disruptive play as they look to solidify their playoff positioning down the stretch of the season.

The takeaway

Hendricks' emergence as a valuable two-way player for the Grizzlies showcases the team's commitment to developing young talent and providing opportunities for players to grow, even when their paths have been slowed by injuries or other setbacks early in their careers.