Checking in on the Memphis Grizzlies’ playoff chances in 2021

The Memphis Grizzlies are on the right track

The Memphis Grizzlies have done well for themselves so far. They’ll be a long shot to earn an automatic playoff bid, but they’re doing everything that was asked of them in the absence of Jaren Jackson Jr.

The Grizzlies currently sit at 17-19 on the year. They’re not extremely comfortable in their position, but they do have a small lead on the trailing Pelicans.

But the Grizzlies cannot get comfortable down the stretch. Yes, they’ll get Jackson Jr. back, but it may be a while before he sees the court. If Memphis isn’t in striking distance of a playoff spot once he returns, it’ll feel like a wasted season.

Despite this, there is no reason to believe that Taylor Jenkins can’t keep his team alive. Barring any sort of disaster, they should be in a strong enough position upon Jaren Jackson Jr.’s return to at least make the play-in tournament.

There are some other teams that could steal this spot though.