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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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Mar 11, 2016; Memphis, TN, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Anthony Davis (23) shoots over Memphis Grizzlies forward Jarell Martin (10) during the first half at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 11, 2016; Memphis, TN, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Anthony Davis (23) shoots over Memphis Grizzlies forward Jarell Martin (10) during the first half at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports /

12. New Orleans Pelicans

Overview:

After their short playoff run in 2014-2015, the New Orleans Pelicans hired offensive guru Alvin Gentry, placing sky-high expectations for the Anthony Davis-led squad. Last season, they fell short of the playoffs in a injury-riddled season. While they did land University of Oklahoma superstar Buddy Hield, there just isn’t enough help for Anthony Davis. The Pelicans replaced Eric Gordon and Ryan Anderson with Solomon Hill, Terrance Jones and E’twaun Moore. Unless they experience a healthy, breakout, season from Jrue Holiday and a MVP season from Anthony Davis, they’ll likely miss the playoffs.

Why the Memphis Grizzlies Could Win:

Everything Outside Anthony Davis

Aside from Anthony Davis, the Memphis Grizzlies win every matchup. Marc Gasol can torch Omer Asik. Chandler Parsons has a strong edge over Quincy Pondexter and Solomon Hill. Tyreke Evans does not have the shooting touch to truly make Tony Allen pay for gambling on defense. Mike Conley is a more polished point guard than Jrue Holiday.

In addition, the Memphis Grizzlies surprisingly have an edge against the Pelicans’ bench. With the exception of Buddy Hield and Terrance Jones, their bench is mediocre. If the Grizzlies bench can catch the Pelicans off guard, they should be able to extend a comfortable lead.

How the Memphis Grizzlies Could Struggle:

Anthony Davis

Anthony Davis is a one-man wrecking machine. He is a 6’10” big man with insanely long arms, guard-like ball handling, fantastic shot-block instincts, and a smooth mid-range jumper. Anthony Davis is basically what most gamers create in NBA 2K.

Last season, Davis had a game where he scored 59 points and 20 rebounds. If he gets going, he will be impossible to stop.

Projected Record: 33-49

Next: 11. Denver Nuggets

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