Memphis Grizzlies: 5 Big Questions Heading Into 2018-19
By AJ Salah
The Memphis Grizzlies have high hopes for the 2018-19 NBA season. What are the biggest factors in realizing those ambitions?
As was much the case in 2017-18, the upcoming NBA season could have many outcomes for the Memphis Grizzlies.
The Grizzlies will open training camp in two weeks’ time, with far more questions than answers, as a team very much in flux. As they attempt to re-tool without rebuilding, owner Robert Pera has — perhaps unfairly — set the bar very high.
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Whether or not 50 wins is a realistic goal, the Grizzlies should be significantly better than last season. They will have a (presumably) healthy Mike Conley, a motivated Marc Gasol, and potential rookie stud Jaren Jackson Jr; none of which were around last year. The Grizz will also benefit from intangibles like continuity, increased veteran presence, and a stable coaching situation.
However, the Western Conference is going to be absolutely brutal this year. The Memphis Grizzlies’ direct competition improved significantly, meaning both tougher playoff odds and fewer easy wins.
Memphis can realistically slot themselves in the thicket of West teams fighting for lower-tier playoff seeds. Any number of variables could break for or against them; a return to the playoffs or lottery could be equally likely.
What factors will be the most important to the Memphis Grizzlies’ season? Beale Street Bears looks at — in ascending order of importance — five big questions heading into 2018-19.