Grizzlies Sign French Guard Poljak to Two-Way Contract

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, April 1st 2026 at 1:47 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: FRANCE, UNITED STATES

Grizzlies Bolster Backcourt with Promising French Guard Mateo Poljak: A Deep Dive into the Two-Way Contract System

The Memphis Grizzlies have announced the signing of 22-year-old French guard Mateo Poljak to a two-way contract, adding depth and potential to their roster as they look toward the future. While a seemingly minor move on the surface, this signing illuminates the increasingly vital role two-way contracts play in NBA team building and player development.

Poljak arrives in Memphis after a solid season with Metropolitans 92 in France, where he showcased a well-rounded game, averaging an impressive 13.7 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.4 assists. Standing at 6-foot-5, Poljak possesses a size advantage for a guard, potentially allowing him to defend multiple positions and contribute on the glass. While details on his specific strengths and weaknesses remain limited to those who've followed his European career closely, these raw numbers suggest a player with offensive capabilities and a willingness to contribute in all facets of the game.

However, the significance of this signing extends beyond simply adding another body to the roster. The two-way contract, implemented in recent years by the NBA, has become a crucial pathway for young players to prove themselves and potentially earn a full NBA contract. These contracts allow teams to have players compete with their G League affiliate while also having the option to call them up to the NBA team for limited appearances.

Here's how it works: Poljak will spend the majority of his time with the Memphis Hustle, the Grizzlies' G League affiliate. He will receive a G League minimum salary while playing for the Hustle, providing him with valuable playing time and the opportunity to hone his skills against competition similar to his own level. However, when the Grizzlies require additional depth, whether due to injury, illness, or strategic matchups, they can call Poljak up to the NBA team. During these NBA appearances, he earns the NBA minimum salary.

This system is a win-win for both the player and the team. For Poljak, it's a foot in the door - a chance to practice with NBA-level players, learn from a professional coaching staff, and demonstrate his abilities on the biggest stage. It bypasses the pressure of immediately needing to perform at an NBA starter's level. He can develop at a more sustainable pace within the G League system, allowing him to refine his skills and adapt to the NBA game.

For the Grizzlies, it provides a cost-effective way to evaluate talent and build depth. Rather than committing to a fully guaranteed NBA contract for an unproven player, they can assess Poljak's potential over a longer period. If he demonstrates NBA-caliber play, they can then opt to sign him to a full contract. If not, they haven't overcommitted financially. This allows for more flexibility in roster management.

The Grizzlies, already known for their commitment to player development, have consistently utilized two-way contracts effectively. They've previously seen success stories emerge from this system, with players like [research needed - insert example of a G-League to NBA player from the Grizzlies]. This signing suggests the Grizzlies' front office believes Poljak has the potential to follow a similar trajectory.

The current NBA landscape is heavily focused on identifying and developing international talent. European leagues, in particular, are producing a consistent stream of skilled players. Poljak represents the latest example of this trend, and the Grizzlies are betting that his experience playing professionally in France will translate well to the NBA.

Looking ahead, Poljak's success will likely hinge on his ability to adapt to the pace and physicality of the NBA game. He'll need to quickly learn the Grizzlies' offensive and defensive schemes and prove he can contribute consistently when given the opportunity. The Hustle will serve as his proving ground, and fans should expect to see him playing significant minutes in the G League to demonstrate his development.

This signing isn't about an immediate impact on the Grizzlies' playoff push. It's an investment in the future, a calculated gamble on a promising young player, and a testament to the effectiveness of the NBA's two-way contract system.