How the Memphis Grizzlies can make the postseason

Scenario Two: Memphis makes the ninth seed

Currently, Memphis is sitting in the ninth seed, though they share it in a three-way tie with the Suns and Spurs. Considering that the Blazers play the Nets, a team without their two best players currently, there’s a good chance Portland wins. If that happens, Memphis will only be able to get the ninth seed at best.

If the Trail Blazers win, then this is what the Grizzlies would need in order to make the ninth seed. First, let’s examine the path that happens if the Grizzlies win. Should Memphis beat Milwaukee, then they would need either the Suns to win or the Spurs to lose to make the ninth seed. If Phoenix wins and San Antonio wins, we go into the three-way tie described above. If San Antonio loses, they have a worse record than Memphis, and the Grizzlies hold the tie breaker over the Suns.

However, Memphis could lose and still make the ninth seed. For this to happen, the Suns and Spurs would both need to lose.

If Portland and the Suns both lose, and the Spurs win, Memphis could still be able to take the ninth seed. However, for that to happen, Memphis would need to win.

Following a ninth seed placement,  Memphis would need to win both play-in games.

GRIZZLIES MAKE NINTH SEED: IF Portland wins AND they win AND EITHER San Antonio loses OR Phoenix wins.

IF Portland wins AND Memphis loses AND Spurs AND Suns lose.

IF Portland loses AND Memphis wins AND EITHER Spurs win OR Spurs AND Suns lose.