Memphis Grizzlies vs. New York Knicks (12/06): What to expect
The Memphis Grizzlies look to build on their streak-breaking win as they face Kristaps Porzingis and the New York Knicks. Could they pull it off?
The Memphis Grizzlies finally overcame a 11-game losing streak by beating the Minnesota Timberwolves at home. Now, they look to regain momentum in the Western Conference playoff race as they battle the New York Knicks.
Over the losing streak, they’ve been hit with the injury bug — more notably, Mike Conley. As Conley, Brandan Wright and Wayne Selden are out again, Chandler Parsons will return after missing two games as precaution after falling on Bryn Forbes’ foot on a jumper.
Can the Memphis Grizzlies create a new winning streak with a win over the Knicks? What should we expect in this one?
What to expect
Tyreke Evans and Chandler Parsons have to be aggressive in this game. With Tim Hardaway Jr. out, Courtney Lee and rookie Frank Ntikilina the only good perimeter defenders for this Knicks team. Since entering the starting lineup, Evans has averaged 18 points and 7.5 assists. With Evans running point, he must have an attack-first mentality while keeping his teammates involved in order for the Grizzlies to escape the Big Apple with a win. With shady perimeter defense, expect a big night from either Evans or Parsons.
Marc Gasol is going to have a difficult time with Kristaps Porzingis. In fact, it wouldn’t be surprising to anyone if Porzingis owns this matchup. JaMychal Green will probably have the defensive assignment, but the Unicorn will probably guard Gasol. If the Grizzlies let him get hot, it’s going to be a long night.
The Grizzlies also have to keep the Knicks’ supporting cast in check. They have plenty of weapons who can erupt at any moment. Courtney Lee and Doug McDermott can get hot from deep. Both Enes Kanter and Michael Beasley can score in bunches. With Porzingis being a guaranteed 20-25 points, the Grizzlies can’t afford big scoring nights from any of these guys.
Game Info
WHO: Memphis Grizzlies @ New York Knicks
WHERE: Madison Square Garden — New York, New York
WHEN: 6:00 PM – ct
HOW TO WATCH: Fox Sports Southeast
HOW TO LISTEN: 92.9 ESPN – Memphis