NBA Southwest Division Outlook: Will The San Antonio Spurs Reign Continue?
By Drew Clark
Memphis Grizzlies
2015-16 Record: 42-40, 7 seed in Western Conference
There was no other team as happy as the Grizzlies were to see last season end. The Memphis Grizzlies managed to make the playoffs and stay competitive within the NBA Southwest Division despite numerous injuries, having a league-record 28 different players donning a Grizzly jersey.
The big news out of Memphis in the offseason was a large contract handed to point guard Mike Conley, and the firing of head coach Dave Joerger. Assistant coach David Fizdale was promoted to the head position. Some believe this team will start trending towards a faster paced offense in 2016-17.
The signing of forward Chandler Parsons will certainly help if he can stay on the floor. Memphis has badly needed shooting in past seasons, Parsons provides that. All-star big men Marc Gasol and Zach Randolph will continue to bang in the paint wearing down defenders. Randolph will reportedly come off the bench, according to Fizdale.
The free agent losses of Chris Andersen, Matt Barnes, Jordan Farmar, and Lance Stephenson provides more opportunities for youngsters, such as rookies Wade Baldwin and Deyonta Davis.
Health is the major concern here, however the Grizzlies have plenty of pieces to make the playoffs once again, and possibly win a series or two if they can avoid the Warriors. Much focus will be on Conley to see if he “earns” that five year, $150 million contract.