Apr 22, 2015; Memphis, TN, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Tony Allen (9) Memphis Grizzlies guard Courtney Lee (5) Memphis Grizzlies center Marc Gasol (33) Memphis Grizzlies forward Zach Randolph (50) and Memphis Grizzlies guard Mike Conley (11) during the game against the Portland Trail Blazers in game two of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports
8. Memphis Grizzlies
2014-2015 Efficiency Rating: 36.5
The grit and grind Grizzlies are back and newly improved. After running into the buzz saw that was the eventual champions, Golden State Warriors, the Grizzlies are looking for vengeance.
They maintain their original core and brought in some reinforcements. The scrappy (which is nice word for dirty) Matt Barnes comes in and seems to fit the culture in Memphis perfectly. Not to mention he will help provide outside shooting, as well as adding to the defensive identity.
April 2, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Phoenix Suns forward
Brandan Wright(32) dunks the basketball against the Golden State Warriors during the first quarter at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
Backup point guard Beno Udrih returns and, just in case he is unable to produce, young talents like Russ Smith and Andrew Harrison are readily available. Vince Carter also returns ready to play spot minutes, especially in the playoffs.
Young talents Jarnell Stokes and Jordan Adams may even see some extended time. Last season, the bench in Memphis was slightly above average, but this year it should be a top bench in the NBA.
The biggest reason for that is Brandan Wright. The efficient big man offers something unique that Memphis has not had in the past. The athletic big man is a career 61 percent shooter and finished an astounding 70 percent from inside of three feet with the Dallas Mavericks. He will offer an excellent reserve to both Marc Gasol and Zach Randolph.
Another thing to keep an eye on this season is Jeff Green. If he can consistently perform well as the sixth man, then the Grizzlies stand a puncher’s chance at making it out of the West.
People may not be talking about them as a top contender, but with the much improved bench they very much are. Maybe this is the year that the grit and grind mentality carries them over the top, because let’s face it – no team wants to see these guys in the playoffs.
Next: Los Angeles Lakers