Memphis Grizzlies: 5 reasons why it isn’t time to panic just yet
By John Nassif
Strength of schedule
Most analytics sites like 538 and basketball reference favored the Pelicans or the Blazers to take the 8th seed following the All-Star break. Much of that had to do with the strength of schedule each team in this race faced down the homestretch.
The Grizzlies faced, not only the most difficult road of the group but the most difficult one in the entire NBA. New Orleans and Portland, however, both faced analytically easier schedules. The current downside for Memphis?
They still face the toughest stretch in the league, even today. The plus? It is a slightly easier road over the next few weeks coming off their gauntlet of a road trip. After stealing a win against the Lakers and dismantling Atlanta, the Grizzlies can look forward to a stretch of games against Brooklyn, Dallas, Atlanta, Orlando, and Portland before the strength of opponents ratchets up again.
If Memphis can capitalize on the next two weeks of easier matchups, along with winning head-to-head games with New Orleans, they can create some much-needed separation for the coveted 8th seed.