Memphis Grizzlies
Last Year’s Outcome: 55-27, L, Second Round
Best-Case Scenario: NBA Champions
Why: This may seem a little bold, but the grit-and-grind Grizzlies subtly had a great off-season by adding both Matt Barnes and Brandan Wright. They have the defense to compete for a title and their offense was surprisingly in the top half of the NBA last season. With the bash brothers, Marc Gasol and Zach Randolph, down low, top-notch point guard Mike Conley, and an arsenal of unique talents the Grizzlies do have the roster composition, that could be championship material.
If healthy, this team is absolutely a club that no one wants to see come playoff time. With Conley being an unrestricted free agent next year, this could be this core group’s last go at it. That being said, if they can improve upon their offensive success last season and maintain their elite defense…look out NBA.
Worst-Case Scenario: 7th seed in the West, First Round Playoff Exit
Why: Some are predicting the Grizzlies to fall off. If there weren’t a chance for that to happen, people would not be talking about it. Outside shooting remains a huge concern – especially with the ever changing focus on the 3-point shot.
Tony Allen must at least be an offensive threat in order for them to have a chance at getting a ring. If Marc Gasol misses time, that could spell disaster for Memphis as well. Let’s face it, he and Randolph are not getting any younger. If their bench is unproductive, especially Jeff Green, then the Grizzlies could lose that contender status rather quickly.
What Will Probably Happen: First Round Playoff Exit
Why: It would mean a lot to the old school NBA ideals if the Grizzlies could somehow bring a title to Memphis. The post up offense is almost extinct, but the Grizzlies make it a joy to watch. With throwback big men and tough as nails defenders, this team would have fit in great back in the 90’s. Back then, the Grizzlies would have been in the upper echelon of the league.
The most likely scenario this year however, is that they finish as either a 4 or 5 seed in the West and lose in a match-up with another Western Conference titan. With the small ball era in the NBA upon us, the lack of outside shooting could be the final nail in the coffin for the grit-and-grind era.
Next: Miami Heat