Ranking the Southwest Division: Summer Edition
By Jalen Brown
2. Memphis Grizzlies
Apr 24, 2014; Memphis, TN, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward
Zach Randolph(50) and guard
Courtney Lee(5) congratulate guard
Tony Allen(9) during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder in game three of the first round of the 2014 NBA Playoffs at FedExForum. Memphis Grizzlies beat Oklahoma City Thunder in overtime 98 – 95. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports
The Grizzlies have made some great moves this off-season, the biggest of which was signing Vince Carter. They mostly kept the roster intact by re-signing Zach Randolph, but they also brought back role players like Beno Udrih and Kosta Koufos as well. This is a very solid, defensively minded Grizzlies squad, who have added some additional scoring via the draft and free agency. If rookies Jordan Adams and Jarnell Stokes can contribute this season, then that’s just an added bonus.
The Grizzlies will be more than a tough out this season. I think that they could genuinely contend. They have veteran leadership, are great defensively, and have added some much needed scoring. Look for this team to be one of the best in recent memory for Memphis, and don’t be surprised if you see them make a move during the season as well. The Grizzlies want to win now.