Grizzlies Fire Head Coach Jenkins, Replace Assistants Ahead of Playoffs

The Memphis Grizzlies have made a surprising move by firing head coach Taylor Jenkins just nine games before the playoffs, despite holding a playoff spot with a 44-29 record. The decision follows a pattern of inconsistency as the team has struggled against top opponents and faced injuries to key players like Ja Morant. Along with Jenkins, assistant coaches Noah LaRoche and Patrick St. Andrews were also let go, prompting speculation about a complete overhaul of the coaching strategy. Tuomas Iisalo, previously an assistant, has been named interim head coach, bringing a new vision to the team's operations. Grizzlies President Zach Kleiman expressed appreciation for Jenkins' contributions, but the team's recent performance and a risk of losing home-court advantage likely influenced the decision. As the Grizzlies prepare for critical games against playoff contenders, the management seeks to stabilize the team's trajectory heading into the postseason.