Memphis Grizzlies coach Tuomas Iisalo isn’t worried about the numbers right now. His primary focus is the process, with hopes of building a stronger team.

So when the Grizzlies took the floor against the Boston Celtics on Wednesday, many of the team’s veteran players got the day off. Santi Aldama was in a lineup that featured three rookies and second-year wing Jaylen Wells.

As expected, the results weren’t pretty in the 121-103 loss, but that wasn’t the focus.

“It was great getting a good look at our young guys in the second game against Boston, and then making the adjustments from there,” Iisalo said after practice on Oct. 10. “It’s more like where are they in their conceptual development. At this moment, it’s becoming clearer and clearer what each player needs to work on and what our team needs at this point.”

The wing position is ultimately the swing spot in determining this roster’s success. With Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., Memphis knows what it’s getting. Zach Edey has already proven that he can be impactful as a screen setter and rebounder, so there’s confidence in his ability to play center.

The wings are being thrown into uncomfortable situations. Between Wells, GG Jackson, Cedric Coward and Vince Williams Jr., everyone probably won’t be in the regular-season rotation. Each player is playing with the intensity Memphis wants to see defensively, so there’s an offensive area that will likely separate those who will get playing time.

“What we’re looking to do is develop that secondary handler skillset as much as possible, so that we have multiple points of attack,” Iisalo said.

Ja Morant update

Grizzlies star Ja Morant was at practice, but he was not visibly participating during the media viewing portion. Morant stood under the basket and rebounded for teammates who were shooting 3-pointers.

While Morant provided optimism on his status going forward, the Grizzlies are playing it close to the vest. Iisalo said Morant is still on his week-to-week designation but wouldn’t reveal anything further.

“He’s here, present,” Iisalo said.

Friday practice notes

Iisalo was impressed with the team’s practice on Oct. 10, stating that he felt like a lot of progress was made. He said that a lineup wouldn’t be determined just yet, but the younger guys will continue to get playing time.

One of those younger players is Williams, who Iisalo says has had bad luck with injuries. Williams hasn’t shot the ball well so far in the preseason, but his defensive intensity has been noticeable. Iisalo also mentioned him as a player who can be a secondary ballhandler. It’s a role Williams has previously thrived in when healthy.

“Just trying to get my teammates involved but also being aggressive for myself,” Williams said. “If I be aggressive for myself, my teammates will be open.”

Damichael Cole is the Memphis Grizzlies beat writer for The Commercial Appeal. Contact Damichael at damichael.cole@commercialappeal.com. Follow Damichael on X, formerly known as Twitter, @DamichaelC.