Can the Grizzlies Compete in the Southwest Division?

Houston Rockets

Perhaps the most threatening team–on paper–to the Memphis Grizzlies’ 2015-16 season looks to be the Houston Rockets.

Houston had a solid squad a successful season in 2014-15. Their offseason took a turn a few days ago when they lost Josh Smith to the dark side known as the Los Angeles Clippers.

However, their team was able to retain K.J. McDaniels, Patrick Beverley, Corey Brewer, and others. These guys will be critical components off the bench for H-Town.

Oh yeah, and the Rockets just made a potential steal of a trade with the Denver Nuggets by acquiring guard Ty Lawson for a couple minimal players plus a lottery-protected Draft pick.

Jan 3, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Memphis Grizzlies shooting guard Tony Allen (9) and point guard Mike Conley (11) guards Denver Nuggets point guard Ty Lawson (3) in the fourth quarter at the Pepsi Center. The Nuggets won 111-108. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

If Houston can somehow get the best out of Dwight Howard while sharing the ball amongst James Harden, Lawson, DH12, and others, they could very well run away with the division title and possibly make an NBA Finals appearance.

A lot can go wrong in Houston, especially with the headaches Lawson has created lately with poor off-court judgments, but if he can get back to focusing on what is most important–his basketball career and his health–the Rockets will be a difficult team to beat all season long.

Could a Rockets/Grizzlies matchup be the next rivalry to brew in the NBA?

Next: Have the Spurs brought everlasting hope to San Antonio?