Analyzing the Memphis Grizzlies’ Western Conference foes

15. Phoenix Suns

Overview:

The Phoenix Suns have an explosive backcourt with a three-headed monster of Devin Booker, Eric Bledsoe and Brandon Knight. They also stole Kentucky point guard Tyler Ulis in the second round to fill their Wildcat backcourt. Their front court is raw. While they have veterans P.J. Tucker, Tyson Chandler and Jared Dudley, their youngsters Alex Len, Dragon Bender and Marquese Chriss have lots of growing to do. Earl Watson has his hands full developing this team into a playoff contender. This team is definitely a few years away from playoff contention.

How the Memphis Grizzlies Could Win:

Veteran Experience and Front Court Advantage

The Memphis Grizzlies starting lineup of Conley-Allen-Parsons-Randolph-Gasol all have years of NBA experience. In addition, they all are top 10-15 players for their positions. Even if the Suns give them fits, they should be able to close them out easily.

The two-headed monster of Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol have gotten old, but they should be able to destroy the Suns’ bigs. Marc Gasol scored 22 points and grabbed eight rebounds in the one game he played against Phoenix.

Where the Memphis Grizzlies Could Struggle:

Devin Booker and length on Zach Randolph

Devin Booker is a dynamic scorer. Post All-Star break, he averaged 19.2 points in 28 games. When LeBron James and Dwyane Wade praise you as a 19-year old NBA player, you’re going to be pretty good. If he gets hot, the Memphis Grizzlies will have trouble keeping up.

Last year, the Suns put either Alex Len or Tyson Chandler on Zach Randolph. As a result, he only averaged 12.3 points and 8.5 rebounds on an abysmal 37.5 percent shooting from the field. If Earl Watson utilizes this again, Randolph may not see significant minutes against the Phoenix Suns.

Projected Record: 21-61

Next: 14. Los Angeles Lakers