Utah Jazz
Starting Lineup
- Collin Sexton
- Jordan Clarkson
- Lauri Markkanen
- John Collins
- Walker Kessler
Key Bench Players
- Keyonte George
- Ochai Agbaji
- Talen Horton-Tucker
- Taylor Hendricks
Season Overview: The Utah Jazz came out of the gates hot last year and then ended up on the outside looking in. For the most part, I don’t really know what to make of this team. John Collins is a good player, but I am not sure where he fits in with Markkanen and Walker Kessler. Collin Sexton and Jordan Clarkson can light up the stat sheet, but I don’t know if they’re able to do so on a consistent basis.
The Jazz should be able to pull off the occasional upset here and there, but they will most likely miss the playoffs again. If they get off to a slow start and Keyonte George is able to see action don’t be surprised to see him in Rookie of the Year conversations.
Memphis Grizzlies
Starting Lineup
- Ja Morant
- Marcus Smart
- Desmond Bane
- Jaren Jackson Jr
- Xavier Tillman
Key Bench Players
- Derrick Rose
- Luke Kennard
- Brandon Clarke
Season Overview: Ja Morant will miss the first quarter of the season, but once he returns this will be one of the best teams in the league. Dillon Brooks left, but they were able to acquire Marcus Smart. Smart should be able to change the attitude in the locker room while not angering other teams in post game press conferences.
Even without Morant, the Grizzlies should be near the top of the standings in the West. The loss of Steven Adams will hurt, and if Brandon Clarke is unable to return later in the year then their depth will be tested, but they will still be a tough out come playoff time.