How Lionel Hollins maximized the Grizzlies' defensive potential

The Memphis Grizzlies became synonymous with tough defense during Lionel Hollins's tenure as head coach in the 2010s. Known for their Grit and Grind style, the Grizzlies played physical defense that made the game unpleasant for every opponent.

Hired for the role in January 2009, Hollins designed a system around high IQ, hard-working defensive players like Mike Conley Jr and Marc Gasol.

While most coaches confine players to specific defensive roles, Hollins encouraged his Grizzlies to play freely and intuitively. He was not worried about Tony Allen gambling for steals by jumping into passing lanes.

"You live with that," Hollins explained to Grantland's Zach Lowe in 2013. "Mike will do the same thing. He'll gamble and give up a layup, but the next time, he'll get a steal, and the next time after that, he'll get another steal. It's just part of letting players be players and not trying to control them."

1980s formula for success

The 2010s Grizzlies were a throwback to the 1980s. They were physical, but they always played with good heart and energy. Allen, the Grindfather, was the best representative of the Grit and Grind defense because he could play outside the system. He was a superstar on perimeter defense because he had his coach's trust to operate freely.

Hollins allowed him to do that because the coaching staff knew Allen could spearhead the defense. If he made a mistake, the rest of the Grizzlies team, particularly Marc Gasol, the defensive anchor, was ready to support him.

Coach Jenkins' challenge: Team defense

The defense of the current version of the Memphis Grizzlies is still a work in progress. The team has excellent defensive players, led by 2022/23 Defensive Player of the Year Jaren Jackson Jr. and 2021-22 DPOY Marcus Smart. The roster also includes valuable defensive role players like Vince Williams Jr. alongside the high-upside 7"4 rookie Zach Edey, who could become a shot-blocking machine.

As head coach of a Grizzlies squad loaded with offensive firepower - superstar Ja Morant, sharpshooting Desmond Bane, and the JJJ train - the most important mission of Taylor Jenkins is to build a top-five NBA defense. He should keep Lionel Hollins' approach in mind.

Letting the two former DPOYs, Smart and JJJ, roam around on the defensive end - jumping into passing lanes and initiating double teams - could be the best way for this Grizzlies team to become a strong defensive force.

If coach Jenkins succeeds in instilling in his players the kind of trust that Hollins did in him, the Grizzlies can once again become a nightmare to play against for any team. Considering their offensive firepower, this Grizzlies era can surpass the achievements of the Grit and Grind team and win an NBA title.

Related: NBA Defensive Player of the Year Jaren Jackson Jr. Says Playing 2K Taught Him How to Block Shots