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2018 NBA Power Rankings: The Warriors win the offseason; Lakers are back

By Michael Saenz

CLEVELAND, OH - DECEMBER 14: Lonzo Ball #2 of the Los Angeles Lakers listens to LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers after the game at Quicken Loans Arena on December 14, 2017 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Lakers 121-112. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OH - DECEMBER 14: Lonzo Ball #2 of the Los Angeles Lakers listens to LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers after the game at Quicken Loans Arena on December 14, 2017 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Lakers 121-112. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /
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17. Memphis Grizzlies

The Memphis Grizzlies were cursed by injury after injury last season, causing them to finish with one of the worst records in the NBA. After drafting Jaren Jackson Jr. with their top 5 pick, they’re hoping to make a return back to the top 8 of the Western Conference.

And the return of Mike Conley and Marc Gasol should go a long way in accomplishing that. Even though those two returns alone won’t be enough to secure a playoff spot, mostly because the West has gotten so much better over the last two seasons, it will give them two of the better players in the conference.

And if they can get a few other small contributions here and there, the Grizzlies should be well on their way towards a spot in the postseason. Many are sleeping on the Grizzlies this season, and I believe they’re going to surprise some folks.