Memphis Grizzlies fans have to be happy about where their team is at right now. They’ve been missing key parts of their lineup all year, but are still managing to compete with top-level NBA teams.
They’ve taken a couple of brutal losses, but for the most part, this team has shown that they can compete with anybody. You don’t hear this much in the basketball world, but this team passes the eye test.
It’s hard not to think that this team has potential when you’re watching Ja Morant go to work every night. He has dropped 35 points in two consecutive games and it’s starting to feel like this is going to be a regular thing.
Kyle Anderson is playing the best basketball of his career, proving himself to be a top-3 player on this team. Desmond Bane has been one of the best rookies in his class, showcasing his elite 3-point shooting abilities.
I could go on and on, but the point is this: the Memphis Grizzlies are a team that nobody wants to see on their schedule. Coaches have to prepare their players double before trying to win a game on Beale Street.
Can the Memphis Grizzlies improve upon their success?
Having said all of that, the Grizzlies are still a .500 team. In the Western Conference, a 41-win season won’t get you into the playoffs. The conference is far more competitive than the east, with strong teams like the Golden State Warriors still fighting for a playoff spot.
So if Memphis wants to make the playoffs, there’s going to have to be some improvement. Looking back on the against-the-odds start to the year isn’t going to do anything at this point.
And it all starts with the outcome of particular series and games for the Grizz.