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Memphis Grizzlies: 3 Keys to Victory Against Portland Trail Blazers

By AJ Salah

MEMPHIS, TN - MARCH 28: Jusuf Nurkic #27 of the Portland Trail Blazers handles the ball during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on March 28, 2018 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 2018 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)
MEMPHIS, TN - MARCH 28: Jusuf Nurkic #27 of the Portland Trail Blazers handles the ball during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on March 28, 2018 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 2018 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Contain Lillard and McCollum

Any game plan for the Portland Trail Blazers has to begin with their fearsome backcourt. Damian Lillard is a human flamethrower, and C.J. McCollum is one of the NBA’s most dangerous second options. Together, the two score over 48 ppg, and can sink an offensively-challenged team like Memphis by themselves.

Memphis will have to focus their efforts defensively as such. Mike Conley and Garrett Temple will be counted on for their best resistance. Both are heady defenders, who pick up far from the hoop — key against deep threats like the Blazers’ guards.

There will be no room for lapses. Lillard and McCollum are both lethal pull-up shooters, who can summon instant offense from the broken plays Memphis thrives on creating. Lillard, in particular, is equally comfortable launching daggers from afar and slicing through the paint. He will force help and keep every Grizzly on their toes.

The good news is that Memphis is long, physical, and plays with a high defensive IQ. What remains to be seen is if Damian Lillard is too quick for them; their rotations will need to stay a step ahead.

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