Memphis Grizzlies at Golden State Warriors (12/30) Preview

Tonight, the Memphis Grizzlies will battle the Golden State Warriors for the third and final time this season. What should they do to capture a win?

The Memphis Grizzlies will continue their five-game road trip with a date with the defending champions. Luckily — totally not sarcasm — or the Grizzlies, they have to look forward to the Steph Curry’s potential return.

For the Grizzlies, it’s just another fantastic way to conclude 2017 — again, totally not sarcasm. It’s going to be a grueling game for them. The Warriors have won 13 of their past 14 games, and they’re rolling. Kevin Durant has looked the part of a MVP and a Defensive Player of the Year. Klay Thompson quietly has another All-Star season this year. Jordan Bell — ironically picked two picks after Ivan Rabb — has flourished as a two-way force even as a rookie. Now, they’re getting Steph Curry back.

It’s fine. Really, it’s fine.

In the NBA, anything can happen. What must the Grizzlies do to make this an interesting game?

Keys to the game

Get Marc Gasol going early

I feel like this is a key to every game, but they need to get Marc Gasol in a rhythm early. Over the past five games, he’s averaging 16 points on an abysmal 34.2 percent shooting from the field (19 percent from downtown), 10 rebounds and 3.8 assists. The Warriors don’t have any post threats. Their only reliable defender down low is rookie Jordan Bell. If the Grizzlies want any shot in this game, they need their All-Star playing All-Star basketball.

Tyreke Evans

Obviously, even with great basketball from Tyreke Evans, the Grizzlies have found themselves on the losing end. However, without him, they wouldn’t be in the game. Against the Warriors, Evans has to be on his A-game. So far this season, he’s averaging 11 points on 32.1 percent shooting against the Warriors.

The narrative needs to change tonight. His 3-point shot needs to be on point. He needs to attack the basket and create opportunities for others. He’s the other scorer and playmaker on this team. You need your best to beat the best.

Lock Klay Thompson

The Warriors could win even when one of their stars has a good game, but whenever Klay Thomson gets hot, it turns into a blowout. Yes, they have Kevin Durant and Steph Curry too, but locking down Klay is the most manageable of the three. Dillon Brooks, Andrew Harrison and James Ennis need to lock in defensively to prevent Klay from going “Human Torch” mode.

Game Info

Who: Memphis Grizzlies @ Golden State Warriors

When: 7:30 PM – ct

Where: Oracle Arena – Oakland, CA

How to watch: Fox Sports Southeast

How to listen: 92.9 ESPN – Memphis

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