Memphis Grizzlies: What to watch for in preseason opener
Memphis Grizzlies is (kinda) back! What are some things you should watch for in tonight’s opener? Could they be keys for the remainder of the preseason?
The Memphis Grizzlies are back in action tonight as they take on the Orlando Magic at home. This preseason exhibition should be sloppy, but it’s still basketball. Now is the time where we just get a little sneak peek of the season and an extended look at the young players.
What are the main things we should watch for in tonight’s game? Will we get an extended look at our new additions and young players? Will the starters receive some rest tonight?
What to watch for
- The young players
The Memphis Grizzlies should give you a huge look at the youth over the next few preseason games. For years, the fans have pleaded for youth, and now they have it. While it’s surely intriguing, there are plenty of questions surrounding this year’s young talent.
Can Wayne Selden carry over this Summer League performance to capture a pivotal role on this team? Will Andrew Harrison and Wade Baldwin rise up to prove themselves as worthy back-up point guards? Will one of the three rookies — Brooks, Zagorac and Rabb — blossom? Can Deyonta Davis take the next step?
No one really knows the answers to these questions, but we should get a small idea in this contest.
- The new additions
The Memphis Grizzlies have some fresh faces. The more notable ones in tonight’s game will be Tyreke Evans and Mario Chalmers. If healthy, both of these players can make a huge impact on this team. They’re the kind of role players who can help the Grizzlies sustain their postseason streak.
Since it’s the preseason, we don’t know how much time we’ll see from them, but it should be entertaining to see them on the court.
- The back-up point guard battle
Of all the position battles, the back-up point guard race is one to watch. If Mario Chalmers is healthy, he’ll snatch that spot as he was one of the league’s best second-unit guards in 2015-16. However, the Grizzlies have two young guards, one of which was a first-round pick.
If Chalmers finds his groove, one of these young players might not make the roster on opening night. It should be interesting, and it could drive an intense battle for a roster spot.
- Chandler Parsons
The man of the hour. Parsons is back from his knee injury and had a chance to do real basketball this summer. There was no rehab, just working out. Tonight will be our first look at a healthier Parsons, and we can make a small judgement of his status tonight.
Keep an eye on Chandler Parsons as he’ll be the team’s biggest storylines.
Game Info:
WHO: Memphis Grizzlies vs. Orlando Magic
WHEN: 7:00 PM – CT
WHERE: FedEx Forum – Memphis, TN
HOW TO WATCH: Fox Sports Southeast
HOW TO LISTEN: ESPN 92.9
Follow us on Twitter @BealeStBearsFS for game updates. Basketball is back! Go Grizz!