MARCH 8: The Grizzlies have officially signed Gabriel to a 10-day contract, the team confirmed today in a press release (Twitter link). The deal will run through March 17, covering Memphis’ next five games.
MARCH 7: The Grizzlies have agreed to a 10-day contract with Wenyen Gabriel, according to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto (Twitter link). Gabriel is a four-year NBA veteran who most recently played with the Lakers in 2022/23.
Gabriel has played for six teams across four years after making his NBA debut in the ’19/20 season with the Kings. The 26-year-old has also spent time with the Trail Blazers, Pelicans, Nets, Clippers and Lakers. He saw his most extensive playing time with the Lakers last year, averaging 5.5 points and 4.2 rebounds in 68 games (two starts).
Gabriel played two collegiate seasons at Kentucky from 2016-18, where he averaged 5.7 points and 5.1 rebounds before going undrafted. He has appeared in 40 games in the G League this season with the Wisconsin Herd, with whom he’s averaging 14.9 points, 9.4 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per contest.
This is almost assuredly a hardship signing from the Grizzlies, who have a full 15-man roster. The team is still dealing with long-term injuries to Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, Marcus Smart, and Brandon Clarke, among others.
Matthew Hurt was signed to a 10-day hardship contract that expired overnight, so Gabriel is likely taking his place. Hurt’s 10-day deal with Memphis was his second of the season, so the Grizzlies are exploring other options instead of signing him for the remainder of the season.
I like Gabriel. I thought he’d be good for OKC. Rebounds, hustles, and above average defender.