Photo: Peter Baba

The Memphis Grizzlies are entering a pivotal offseason after being swept in the first round of the playoffs by the Oklahoma City Thunder and making the major decision to dismiss head coach Taylor Jenkins just before the postseason.

With the team at a crossroads, Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations Zach Kleiman offered a frank and sobering evaluation of the Grizzlies’ current state during his postseason media availability.

Despite a 48-win regular season, Kleiman made it clear that Memphis had not met internal expectations and that significant changes are necessary moving forward.

“I don’t think we can look back at this series and this season and say, ‘Oh, we’re close,'” Kleiman said. “No, we’re not close. There’s a lot of work to be done.”

The Grizzlies’ playoff struggles continued, as the core group of Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, and Jaren Jackson Jr. has delivered just one series win together so far.

Nevertheless, Memphis plans to maintain some continuity, with an extension for Jackson expected this offseason to keep the trio locked in contractually for the foreseeable future.

The organization’s first major task will be settling the head coaching situation. Interim coach Tuomas Iisalo, who took over after Jenkins’ dismissal, remains a candidate for the permanent role, though Kleiman stressed that no decisions have been finalized at this point.

Kleiman’s candid remarks hint at deeper introspection within the franchise. Beyond hiring a coach, there may be broader roster and structural changes under consideration as Memphis works to build a true contender around its young core.

“Disappointing season,” Kleiman said bluntly. “A lot to sort through here. Forty-eight wins, good for an eight seed, but who cares? It’s not good enough.”

The offseason ahead could be one of the most consequential in recent Grizzlies history as the front office weighs how best to reposition the team for a more serious title pursuit.

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