Why did Jahmai Mashack play center for the Grizzlies?

Jahmai Mashack, a 6-foot-3 guard, played center for the Memphis Grizzlies on February 6th due to injuries and trades that depleted the team's roster of traditional big men.

What was Jahmai Mashack's experience playing center before the NBA?

Mashack had experience playing center in college, where he even guarded 7-foot-3 Zach Edey and had to adapt to the NBA's style of play, including increased screening and facilitation.

How did the Portland Trail Blazers exploit the Grizzlies' size disadvantage?

The Portland Trail Blazers took advantage of the Memphis Grizzlies' lack of size by scoring 60 points in the paint during their 135-115 victory on February 6th.

Home / Sports / 6-Foot-3 Guard Plays Center for Undermanned Grizzlies

6-Foot-3 Guard Plays Center for Undermanned Grizzlies

7 Feb

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Summary

Jahmai Mashack, a 6-foot-3 guard, played center due to injuries and trades.
He previously guarded 7-foot-3 Zach Edey in college.
Portland exploited Memphis' size disadvantage, scoring 60 paint points.

6-Foot-3 Guard Plays Center for Undermanned Grizzlies

On February 6th, Memphis Grizzlies guard Jahmai Mashack, standing at 6-foot-3, accepted the challenging assignment of playing the center position. This necessity arose from multiple injuries to the team's regular centers and recent trades involving key big men. Mashack had prior experience playing center in college, even guarding the formidable 7-foot-3 Zach Edey.

During the recent game against the Portland Trail Blazers, Mashack faced opponents like 7-foot-3 Donovan Clingan and 7-foot-2 Yang Hansen. He contributed five points, one rebound, and three steals in 20 minutes of play. The Trail Blazers ultimately leveraged their significant size advantage, dominating the paint with 60 points in their 135-115 win.

Mashack's scrappy play was evident as he utilized his agility and basketball IQ to create turnovers. He successfully pressured opponents into mistakes, forcing two turnovers from Hansen alone. While adapting to the NBA's faster pace and increased screening compared to college, Mashack expressed no excuses for the adjustment.