Kennedy Chandler, former Tennessee PG, waived by Memphis Grizzlies

Kennedy Chandler was waived by the Memphis Grizzlies Saturday morning, a move that will have several in the Volunteer State scratching their heads.

Chandler, a rookie with the Grizzlies, is being moved to free up roster space for Kenneth Lofton. The true PG was strictly a bench player with Memphis, averaging 7.8 minutes per game while sitting behind superstar Ja Morant and Tyus Jones. He’s averaged 2 points per game this season and scored a season-high 9 points in December against Miami.

His low numbers seem to stem more from being the 3rd point guard on the roster than a lack of feel for the NBA. Chandler has shown a few times his ability to play NBA level basketball, enough at least to be a role player, but as far as paying time is concerned Memphis just did not seem to be a great fit.

Now, Chandler will likely be heading elsewhere.

The Memphis Grizzlies are waiving guard Kennedy Chandler, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Surprising release of the rookie 20-year-old who was on long-term deal. Kennedy will receive strong interest on league’s waivers and open market.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) April 8, 2023

Chandler’s arrival in Knoxville was highly anticipated as a 5-star in the Class of 2021. Chandler took the Vols to the NCAA Tournament after winning Tennessee its first SEC Tournament championship since 1979. The Vols were red-hot entering the 2021-22 tournament, but fizzled out against 11-seed Michigan in the Round of 32.

Chandler was drafted by the Grizzlies in the 2nd round a few months later.

Ethan Stone

Ethan Stone is a Tennessee graduate and loves all things college football and college basketball. Firm believer in fouling while up 3.