Beale Street Bears
Fansided

3 keys to the Grizzlies’ NBA Playoff push

By Brandon Martinez

Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports
Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
3 of 4
Next
Memphis Grizzlies
Ja Morant, Xavier Tillman, Grayson Allen, Memphis Grizzlies Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports /

The starters

While the Grizzlies’ starting lineup features some star-power regarding the likes of Morant, Valanciunas, and a breakout season from Kyle Anderson, the second unit has actually been the game-changer for this Grizzlies’ team.

The bench has been very effective this season offensively, currently sitting at 4th in points per game, 10th in field-goal percentage, 4th in three-point percentage, and 3rd in assists per game. Not only that, but they also do a lot of work defensively, ranking 1st in steals per game and 13th in blocks per game.

As for the starters, the story is quite the opposite. They currently rank 25th in points per game, 18th in field-goal percentage, and dead last in three-point percentage. Now, this may have some to do with Morant, Valanciunas, and JJJ all missing some time, but even Morant is struggling, shooting just 20% from deep this season.

When Morant, Valanciunas, and Jaren are all healthy and starting, with an already top seven bench, this team should be one to watch for in June.

Home/Grizzlies News