Memphis Grizzlies: 3 storylines for the Pelicans game
By Ethan Becker
No. 2: Western Conference playoff race
Yesterday and today’s games are going to be crucial in deciding that Western Conference playoff situation. With the Grizzlies currently sitting in the eighth seed, and being the playoff favorite by almost every site from ESPN to the Ringer, odds are looking nice that we see Memphis stay in Orlando past their eight seeding games. However, it’s not necessarily a guarantee.
The Grizzlies have a tough back-to-back, a rarity in the bubble schedule, and after a tough loss to the Spurs, they may have trouble getting out to the fast pace that Memphis is known for. Not only that, but it’s likely we’ll see a play-in series in the West, probably between the Trail Blazers and the Grizzlies. While Memphis would have the advantage in that game, they’d only have to win one game whereas Portland would need both, the Blazers seem bent on getting to the postseason by any means.
And, as yesterday showed, it’s not soon enough to count San Antonio out of any playoff pushes. They’re playing with a newer and rough style of play than we’d seen before the hiatus, and if anyone can overcome seemingly overwhelming odds to make the playoffs, it’s Pop. After all, speculation on future schedule wins and loses are all nice and good, but the fact of the matter is that the Spurs are the current ninth seed.