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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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Feb 19, 2016; Memphis, TN, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Andrew Wiggins (22) goes to the basket against Memphis Grizzlies guard Tony Allen (9) and Memphis Grizzlies guard Mike Conley (11) during the first quarter at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 19, 2016; Memphis, TN, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Andrew Wiggins (22) goes to the basket against Memphis Grizzlies guard Tony Allen (9) and Memphis Grizzlies guard Mike Conley (11) during the first quarter at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports /

10. Minnesota Timberwolves

Overview: 

The Minnesota Timberwolves sent waves through the NBA with their promising young trio of Karl-Anthony Towns, Andrew Wiggins and Zach LaVine. Now that they’ve drafted Kris Dunn and hired defensive wizard Tom Thibodeau, their potential is scary high. They will show their glimpses of future dominance throughout the season, but ultimately, they will experience growing pains. This season will probably be their last year in the lottery for a very, very long time.

Why the Memphis Grizzlies Could Win:

The 3-Point Line

For once, the Memphis Grizzlies could have a 3-point advantage against this team. Mike Conley, Chandler Parsons, James Ennis and Troy Daniels can make defenders pay for leaving them open. Quite frankly, they are all capable of shooting 40+ percent from 3-point land. If Wade Baldwin IV develops quickly, that adds another shooter who can help the Memphis Grizzlies.

Unless Ricky Rubio, Zach LaVine and Andrew Wiggins come back to work with a significantly improved shooting touch, their only threat from 3 is Brandon Rush.

The Memphis Grizzlies need to look to hit a barrage of 3-pointers in efforts to beat this team.

Why the Memphis Grizzlies Could Struggle:

Versatility + Young Talent + Thibs = Nightmare

Simple math.

KAT, Wiggins, and Dunn are all younger than 23 years old. They all have the tools to be elite NBA defenders. With Thibs at the helm, they should develop even quicker. Combine them with Ricky Rubio’s elite passing and defense as well as Zach LaVine’s uber athleticism and streaky scoring, and you’ll have a matchup nightmare. This combination is deadly for an older team like the Memphis Grizzlies.

Projected Record: 40-42

Next: 9. Houston Rockets

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