Grizzlies to Bring OJ Mayo off the Bench

OJ admits that he’s frustrated by the decision, but insists that he’s willing to do what the coach deems is best for the team. From the Commercial Appeal: “Hollins said his decision Wednesday to take guard O.J. Mayo out of the starting lineup is designed to give the team’s struggling bench scoring punch. Rookie Xavier Henry will start at shooting guard for the foreseeable future, although Hollins insisted the change isn’t permanent. ‘It’s difficult when you make these kinds of decisions because everybody reads more into it than they should,’ Hollins said. ‘I had a long talk with O.J. He’s fine and he’ll do well.’ Coming off the bench will allow Mayo to be featured more on offense, according to Hollins. Mayo won’t have to compete for shots with Zach Randolph and Rudy Gay or a more aggressive Mike Conley. Still, the move comes as Mayo is averaging a career-low 13.6 points on 39-percent shooting. Mayo acknowledged that the situation makes him unhappy because of his competitive nature. But the third-year guard said he’s prepared to put the team first. ‘I just want it to be a winning decision,’ Mayo said. ‘I don’t think anybody would be happy. I’m uncomfortable. But I’m a basketball player. I’m a professional. If it’s what’s best for the team, honestly, I’m definitely all for it. The team and winning are the priorities. I can put my feelings aside for what’s best for the team.'”