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Analyzing the Memphis Grizzlies’ Western Conference foes

By Parker Fleming

Feb 6, 2016; Memphis, TN, USA; Memphis Grizzlies center Marc Gasol (33) shoots in the second quarter as Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki (41) defends at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 6, 2016; Memphis, TN, USA; Memphis Grizzlies center Marc Gasol (33) shoots in the second quarter as Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki (41) defends at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 8, 2016; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki (41) reacts during the second half against the Memphis Grizzlies at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 8, 2016; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki (41) reacts during the second half against the Memphis Grizzlies at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports /

7. Dallas Mavericks

Overview:

After losing their starting small forward Chandler Parsons to the Memphis Grizzlies, the Dallas Mavericks snagged Harrison Barnes and Andrew Bogut from the Golden State Warriors. This team’s season will be determined by Rick Carlise’s ability to transform Harrison Barnes into a go-to option. Even if this happens, they still need quality production from Deron Williams and Wes Matthews. While Mark Cuban has spent the last half-decade making the most of Dirk Nowitzki’s twilight years, now may be time to look forward to life after Dirk.

Why the Memphis Grizzlies Could Win:

Backcourt and Bench Play

The Memphis Grizzlies must lock down Wes Matthews. If Tony Allen can prevent Matthews from a scoring explosion, he’ll help the Grizzlies take this match-up.

With Deron Williams’ weak ankles, Mike Conley must use his speed to his advantage and exploit this mismatch. In three games against the Mavericks, he averaged 19 points. If Fizdale increases his usage rate, Conley can have some big games against the Mavericks on the offensive end.

Brandan Wright and JaMychal Green should have their way with Dallas backup bigs Dwight Powell and Salah Mejri. James Ennis and Justin Anderson will be a fun battle to watch. The main key is whether Troy Daniels and Wade Baldwin can contain Seth Curry and JJ Barea.

Why the Memphis Grizzlies Could Struggle:

Andrew Bogut

New starting center Andrew Bogut supplies Dirk with a front-court running mate with elite rim-protection (2.6 blocks per 36 minutes) and passing abilities (4.0 assists per 36 minutes). In addition, he sets picks that gets shooters open just about every time. Bogut will free Wes Matthews and Harrison Barnes for easy scoring opportunities. His passing ability will benefit Barnes for slashing purposes and allow Dirk to pull out some vintage moments. If Bogut can get everyone in the offense involved, the Memphis Grizzlies will have a hard time stopping this offense.

Projected Record: 44-38

Next: 6. Utah Jazz

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