The Memphis Grizzlies’ roster includes several intriguing two-way players whose futures could quietly shape Memphis’ depth. As the organization continues sorting through its young talent, the two-way guys shouldn’t be ignored. This portion of the Grizzlies’ roster may not generate the same attention as the core rotation. However, this franchise often utilizes this position to reveal where it sees developmental upside.

Two-way contracts are designed for players who aren’t yet guaranteed full-time NBA roles, but have enough potential to justify continued investment. For the Grizzlies, those decisions matter as Memphis has a history of finding contributors through that patient development. This current group offers a mix of skill and upside, and huge decisions await Memphis heading into this offseason.

Projecting The Future Of The Grizzlies’ Roster: The Two-Way Guys
Javon Small

One of the more intriguing names on the two-way side of the Grizzlies’ roster is rookie point guard Javon Small. The former second-round draft pick offers a skill set that naturally fits the offense, including playing with pace. After being thrust into the primary backup point guard role to begin the regular season, Small has flashed potential to challenge for that role moving forward.

For a team constantly evaluating guard depth, that matters. Since being re-inserted into the playing rotation in late January, Small is averaging 12.3 points, 4.1 assists, and 4.3 rebounds on 49.7% shooting. He has also displayed tenacity on defense, which shows in his 1.2 average in steals during the same timeframe. That consistency placed him in the top 10 of the NBA Kia Rookie Ladder in its last two iterations.

Small’s path to sticking on the Grizzlies’ roster depends on how the team handles its logjam at his position. If Memphis sees him as a long-term backcourt option, Small could become the kind of low-cost developmental guard that pays off over time. He is primed to follow the likes of Cam Spencer and Scotty Pippen Jr. from recent seasons of promotion to the main roster. However, he is signed on his two-way contract through next season, so the team has time on its side before making a decision.

Jahmai Mashack

Jahmai Mashack may have one of the clearest identity fits on the Grizzlies’ roster. His defensive toughness, energy, and willingness to do the dirty work align naturally with the type of culture Memphis has often valued. And that gives the last pick of the 2025 NBA Draft a real chance to be retained.

The biggest question for Mashack’s future on the Grizzlies’ roster is offensive viability. If he can provide enough shooting to stay playable, his defensive identity could make him a strong candidate for a longer stay in Memphis. Like Small, Mashack is signed on his two-way contract through next season. Considering the team has three two-way slots, he will likely remain for another year to prove he deserves a promotion to the main roster.

Rayan Rupert

Rayan Rupert averaged 3.2 points in only 12.0 minutes per game in three seasons with the Portland Trail Blazers. After being waived on February 20, Rupert signed with Memphis on February 22. He has since scored in double digits in seven of his 12 games with the Grizzlies. He did this after only accomplishing that feat five times in 48 games played with the Blazers this season.

After impressing in a 10-day stint, Rupert signed a two-way contract through the rest of this season. He fits the archetype every NBA team wants as a rangy wing (6’7″) defender with a growing three-point shot (39.5%). However, unlike Small and Mashack, his two-way contract expires after this season. So, despite his successful time in Memphis, his future is more uncertain with three draft picks on the horizon.

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