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Ranking the Memphis Grizzlies’ NBA Seeding Games

By AJ Salah

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 21: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies drives to the basket on Rajon Rondo #9 of the Los Angeles Lakers during the third quarter at Staples Center on February 21, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. 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. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 21: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies drives to the basket on Rajon Rondo #9 of the Los Angeles Lakers during the third quarter at Staples Center on February 21, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. 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. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /
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5. Oklahoma City Thunder, Aug 7

Several catalysts could make this game a standout amid the action-packed Orlando slate:

First are the massive two-way seeding implications. Beyond Memphis’ own battle, the Thunder sit fifth in the West, with just four games separating third from seventh. The difference between facing the Jazz and Clippers in the first round is more than enough to induce competition.

Next is OKC’s triumvirate of PGs – Chris Paul, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Dennis Schroder – posing a unique challenge for Ja Morant. Gilgeous-Alexnader – a lengthy prodigy whose awareness, finishing and herky-jerky handle are years ahead – could ignite a battle of future All-Star guards.

The Thunder are also liable for a close finish. They led the NBA with 42 “clutch” games this year (within five points, inside five minutes left). Unfortunately for Memphis, they also destroyed teams in that sample, their 30.2 net rating besting the NBA by a mile.

Memphis are dogs on-paper in this game, but could certainly sneak away with a win. OKC will be coming off games vs. the Nuggets and Lakers, and might be a bit weary.

While the Thunder’s elite clutch rating doesn’t bode well for the Grizz, just having a close game in this high-variance setting could be enough.

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