Memphis Grizzlies Preseason Debut Against the Houston Rockets Preview

By AJ Salah | Oct 2, 2018

MEMPHIS, TN - NOVEMBER 18: Marc Gasol #33 of the Memphis Grizzlies shoots the ball against the Houston Rockets on November 18, 2017 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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Memphis Grizzlies /

Regaining Alpha Status

There is probably about six or seven “keys” to this season for the Memphis Grizzlies, but reestablishing their stars is by far the biggest.

Mike Conley played 12 games last year. In his absence, Marc Gasol listlessly chucked fadeaways and played defense at about 40%. Both are looking for bounce-back years, and Memphis is very much all-in on the outcome.

The onus is thus on for Memphis’ coaching staff to facilitate their re-acquaintance. It should not be that difficult; not only are the two longtime teammates, but have few high-maintenance pieces to adjust around.

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The crucial variables are their bodies; if Conley is fully healed, and if Gasol still has a couple peak years left in the tank. If they can recreate 2016-17, there is no reason Memphis cannot compete for a West playoff spot.

This priority for Memphis should be irrelevant to the Houston matchup. Conley figures to face Chris Paul a lot on both sides of the ball; a fearsome foe. Gasol may see a lot of small-ball lineups with Clint Capela‘s role set in stone, and Nene injured.

In any case, letting them reestablish their flow from years’ past is where this Grizzlies season must begin.

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