Around the NBA: Breaking down the Southwest Division

Jan 17, 2015; Memphis, TN, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Zach Randolph (50) handles the ball against Portland Trail Blazers forward Dorell Wright (1) during the game at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports

Memphis Grizzlies

There’s no doubt that the Memphis Grizzlies appear to be the most talented team in the Southwest Division as it stands. The Grizzlies’ have been in first place for the majority of the season in the Southwest Division, and don’t look to be going away anytime soon.

The teams addition of Jeff Green has solidified an already solid rotation.  The departure of Tayshaun Prince and Quincy Pondexter leave a couple holes on the roster, but not big enough to haunt the Grizzlies’ down the stretch.

Memphis is 5-5 against Southwest Division opponents, and the only winning record they have against their four division rivals is San Antonio. Memphis is 2-1 against the Spurs, 1-1 against the Mavericks and Pelicans, and 1-2 against the Houston Rockets.

If the Grizzlies’ can stay healthy, they will be the front runners to come away with their first division title in franchise history.  The team has won five of their past six games with statement wins coming against Portland, Toronto and Phoenix.

The one weakness that the Grizzlies’ will have to overcome is the lack of depth in the front court.  Losing Tayshaun Prince for Jeff Green wasn’t a big loss, but Marc Gasol and Zach Randolph won’t be able to carry the load playing 40 minutes each game down the stretch. Jon Leuer will have to step it up to give the starters some much needed rest.