Kosta Koufos could join the starting lineup versus the Spurs on Friday if Gasol's knee injury forces him to sit out.

Koufos could join the starting lineup versus the Spurs on Friday if Gasol's knee injury forces him to sit out.

Analysis:

Gasol (knee) missed time last year, and Koufos did an admirable job filling in for him. During Gasol's absence last season, Koufos started 22 games, averaging 8.8 points (45.9 FG, 71.4 FT), 8.5 rebounds, 0.6 assists, 1.2 blocks and 0.5 steals in 24 minutes per game. Gasol could very well end up starting versus the Spurs tonight, but if he's unable to play Koufos is the most likely to earn the start at center. Jon Leuer would also be in line for more minutes, but Leuer is more of a four, and the Grizzlies don't have a true third center on the roster at the moment. Therefore, if Gasol is forced to sit Koufos could be forced into heavy minutes versus the Spurs on Friday.