Analyzing the Memphis Grizzlies’ Western Conference foes

Taking a look at where the Memphis Grizzlies fit in the Western Conference and why they can and can’t beat each of their western foes.

The draft has passed, the free agency frenzy has died down and the teams are set. With a new coaching staff, a new starting small forward and revamped athleticism off the bench, the Memphis Grizzlies are set to look more like a modern NBA team.

Even though the season starts in less than a few months, many writers have made their predictions on the outcomes this season.

In ESPN’s Summer Forecast, the Memphis Grizzlies are ranked 7th in the West with a 43-39 record:

"A total of 28 players saw action for the Grizzlies last season, an NBA single-season record, so why does our panel project an improvement of only one win, despite the Grizzlies adding Chandler Parsons and re-signing Mike Conley? Age and health are factors. Zach Randolph turned 35 in July and saw declines in scoring and rebounding last season. And Marc Gasol, who will be 32 by season’s end, is recovering from a broken foot and has missed 20 or more games in two of the past three seasons."

ESPN Insider’s Kevin Pelton used RPM (real plus minus) to predict every team’s record. For the Memphis Grizzlies? Ninth in the West, not even 40 wins.

"Yes, the Grizzlies strengthened their starting lineup by signing Chandler Parsons, but their bench is incredibly thin and several starters (including Parsons) are major injury risks. Gulp."

Bleacher Report’s Ric Bucher proclaimed that the Memphis Grizzlies will be the most disappointing team in the league.

Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley predicts the Memphis Grizzlies winning 55 games next season.

The Western Conference is sure to be a craze all season long. How will the Memphis Grizzlies fare against their Western Conference foes?

Next: 15. Phoenix Suns