Beale Street Bears, Bold Predictions!
By Ken Newhouse
Mar 26, 2014; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Memphis Grizzlies center Marc Gasol (33) is introduced prior to the game against the Utah Jazz at EnergySolutions Arena. The Grizzlies won 91-87. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
Well Grizzlies‘ fans, the 2014-2015 season will kick off in just over 24 hours, and I sure am excited! The BSB writers/editors got together and put together the first edition of bold predictions for the upcoming season! So hold on to your hats, here are your 2014-2015 Beale Street Bears bold predictions!
Xan Nikchevich – Bold Prediction: “The Grizzlies are going to be in the top half of the league in scoring. I think this is a very bold prediction, especially given that they were near the bottom last year, but I believe that it’s possible. It might involve a mid-season trade to grab another scorer, but Vince Carter and rookie Jordan Adams should be able to help put a few more points on the board. Look for both Mike Conley and Marc Gasol to increase their points per game averages this season as well.”
Christian Dudley – Bold Prediction: “I fully believe that Mike Conley will earn his way onto the Western Conference All-Star Team. Being one of the most underrated point guards in the league, through both production and salary, Mike should have already made the All-Star Game a season ago. This year will be his year to finally gain the national attention that he deserves for his excellent leadership and guard play for the Memphis Grizzlies.”
Sharon Brown – Bold Prediction: “The Memphis Grizzlies will make the playoffs for the 5th straight year. Marc Gasol will average 20/10 and will be an MVP candidate. Coach Joerger will be Coach of the year. Tony Allen will once again be first team all defense.”
Ben Parker – Bold Prediction: “The Grizzlies will trade Marc Gasol before the trade deadline. I think odds are good this happens. There has been talk about him possibly leaving in free agency next summer and the Grizzlies know he is a valuable commodity. Unless the Grizzlies really think they can win it all with Gasol this year, they will likely trade Gasol before the trade deadline.”
Nir Regev– Bold Prediction: “The Memphis Grizzlies will capture the 7th seed in the West. A prediction that might appear conservative in nature, but this is a conservative team. This is a heavily analytics based squad reigned in by PER stat originator John Hollinger. One that had the courage to jettison budding star Rudy Gay for defensive cohesion on the perimeter. They believe in defense, and defense gets you into the playoffs. But it’s your stars that keep you in the big rodeo. The quest for the elusive NBA championship. If this team, particularly veterans like Vince Carter are healthy, Memphis could see a 2nd Round entry over the horizon.”
Ken Newhouse – Bold Prediction: “I’m gonna go out on a limb here and say this is the final year the Grizzlies have to be a dominant team. They’re aging, and hell, they can’t keep up this production for much longer. This may not be a ‘bold prediction,’ but Memphis will be the 2014-2015 NBA Champions!”