Memphis Grizzlies vs. Golden State Warriors (10/21): What to expect, prediction, game info
The Memphis Grizzlies won their season-opener against the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday. Will they ride their momentum to a win over the Golden State Warriors (1-1) tonight?
Do you remember when the Golden State Warriors entered the FedExForum for the first time last season? Most analysts were expecting an annihilation; after all, the Memphis Grizzlies were missing Mike Conley, James Ennis, Chandler Parsons (back when there was hope) and Vince Carter. Instead, Memphis fans were treated to something….glorious. Troy Williams looked more like Kevin Durant than Kevin Durant did, and Jarell Martin looked more like Draymond Green than Draymond Green did.
It was a night where nothing made sense, and yet everything was right with the world (in Memphis anyway).
The Grizzlies were awesome in their debut on Wednesday against the Pelicans. Led by the incredible play of second-round pick Dillon Brooks, the bench dominated with 56 points. The Grizzlies were tenacious on defense, and the star power of Mike Conley was on full display.
However, it will take a truly special effort to repeat their success against the Warriors last year.
What To Expect
The Warriors will enter tonight’s game with their whole roster available. Memphis, on the other hand, will be missing JaMychal Green (ankle sprain) and Wayne Selden (quad). Jarell Martin will be taking Green’s spot in the starting lineup. Martin had one of his best games of the season against the Warriors last year, and Memphis will need another big game from him.
As is the case in many NBA games, star power will be the name of the game. Expect Marc Gasol and Mike Conley to be at their best against the greatest collection of individual talent the NBA has ever known. Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, and Klay Thompson will be ready to set the court on fire (yes, I just disrespected Draymond Green). Regardless of the final result, there will be nearly enough talent in this game to be worthy of an NBA all-star game.
Fatigue could also be a factor that could be to the Grizzlies’ advantage. The Warriors will be playing the second night of a back-to-back in which all members of their “Big 4” (fine, Draymond) played more than 35 minutes. Having not played since Wednesday, the Grizzlies will certainly be fresher than the Warriors.
Related Story: Opposing Views: Golden State Warriors
Prediction
It’s early in the season! I’m feeling good, you’re feeling good — why not be optimistic? The Grizzlies will play a high-octane, high-scoring game against the Warriors. Golden State will have a small lead at the end of third quarter, but the Grizzlies will find a way to eke one out on their home floor. This game will also have the double-benefit of making people question if the Warriors have lost a step! (which is stupid since they’ll still win the title).
Memphis 116, Golden State 113
Game Info
WHO: Golden State Warriors at Memphis Grizzlies
WHERE: FedEx Forum — Memphis, TN
WHEN: 7:00 PM – ct
HOW TO WATCH: Fox Sports Southeast
HOW TO LISTEN: 92.9 ESPN
Follow us on Twitter @BealeStBearsFS for live updates on tonight’s game