What are the strengths and weaknesses of Memphis Grizzlies center Steven Adams?

The Memphis Grizzlies missed the inside presence of Steven Adams in their first-round matchup loss to the LA Lakers. Adams has been out with a knee injury since mid-January and missed the playoffs because of it.

Memphis could have used Adams to make life tougher for the Lakers in the playoffs. His presence might have given the Grizzlies a better chance of making the series exciting.

Anthony Davis and LeBron James had too many easy buckets inside. If Adams was there, he could have altered some shots that could have impacted the matchups. His physicality was also missed by the Grizzlies who bowed out to the Lakers in six games.

Steven Adams was acquired by the Memphis Grizzlies from the New Orleans Pelicans ahead of the 2021-22 NBA season. Adams served as the team's starting center and provided the veteran voice in the locker room.

So, what are the strengths and weaknesses of Adams? He's a physical big man who sets screens and runs the rim. He's one of the best offensive rebounding centers in the league and a clever post defender. His physical strength is also one of his greatest attributes as a player.

However, Adams' weakness has always been his offensive game. He's not a scoring threat and usually gets his buckets from putbacks and slam dunks. He also can't defend the perimeter, but that's why the Grizzlies have Jaren Jackson Jr. on the roster.

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A look at Memphis Grizzlies' Steven Adams' strengths and weaknesses

Steven Adams of the Memphis Grizzlies

Steven Adams is an old-school center who stands at 6-foot-11 and weighs around 265 pounds with a nearly 7-foot-5 wingspan. Adams' physical strength has been lauded by many players around the league, which makes him a tough post defender.

That also gives Adams the necessary leverage and positioning for rebounds. He's among the best offensive rebounders in the NBA, leading the league in that category two seasons ago. He's also a good passer for his size and could make plays down the block.

Meanwhile, Adams' lack of offensive skills makes him tough to use sometimes. He can only score effectively in putbacks and when he's running to the rim. He can't put the ball down and drive the basket or even have some decent post-up skills.

Nevertheless, it helps that Jaren Jackson can provide defense whenever necessary. Adams might not be quick enough to guard perimeter players, but he can make their lives a living hell with his screens at the other end.

It should be noted that Adams is still recovering from a knee injury, and the Memphis Grizzlies have not provided an update on the same.