Memphis Grizzlies vs. Atlanta Hawks (10/09) Preview

With the third preseason game underway, what should we expect tonight from the Memphis Grizzlies? More starters? Or more youth?

The Memphis Grizzlies are looking to extend their preseason record to 3-0 with their contest in Atlanta tonight. In preseason, you don’t really know what to expect.

Some games, you see more action from the starters. In others, it’s filled with young players fighting for the last roster spots. In other words, the less-glorified preseason basketball could actually look nice or like complete trash.

With the third preseason game out of five, what should we expect from the Memphis Grizzlies?

What to expect

• Some debuts

The Memphis Grizzlies will have two players making their season debut tonight. Marc Gasol is slated for tonight’s game after nursing an injured ankle. Expect his minutes to be limited. In addition, Tyreke Evans will make his debut with the team. He’s experienced migraines for the past few games. Hopefully, he gives the Grizzlies a short glimpse of what he brings to this team.

• Big 3?

With Gasol does play tonight, we’ll get an abbreviated look at the envisioned Big 3 of Marc, Conley and Parsons. Granted, it’s preseason, so their playing time is questionable. However, we’ll get short glimpses of how the offense works around their new Big 3.

• Roster competition

The season starts next Wednesday, and the Memphis Grizzlies have two hard cuts to make. Will Wade Baldwin or Andrew Harrison be the point guard casualty? Which big man is on the chopping block, Jarell Martin or Deyonta Davis? Expect to see extended minutes from these players tonight. Standout performances from any of these players could solidify their spots on the opening night roster.

• Sloppy basketball

The Atlanta Hawks are already bound for the lottery, so it’s not going to be pretty to begin with. With the preseason being halfway done, expect both teams to play the guys fighting for roster spots. In that case, it could get sloppy and ugly.

Next: Grizzlies' looming roster decision is a good problem

Game Info

WHO: Memphis Grizzlies at Atlanta Hawks

WHEN: 6:30 PM ct

WHERE: McCamish Pavilion – Atlanta, GA

HOW TO WATCH: Fox Sports Southeast

HOW TO LISTEN: 92.9 ESPN

Follow us on Twitter @BealeStBearsFS for live updates on tonight’s game.