Memphis Grizzlies: 3 keys to victory against the Utah Jazz

The Memphis Grizzlies need Jonas Valanciunas to have a great night

Jonas Valanciunas has been the most consistent player on the Memphis Grizzlies roster this year by a mile. He’s virtually a lock for a double-double every game and his size alone causes issues for every Grizzlies opponent.

That said, consistency isn’t going to cut it tonight. The Grizzlies need JV to have one of his best games of the season against a Jazz team that has one of the best big men in the game in Rudy Gobert.

I’m not talking about a 15-point, 15-rebound game either. Valanciunas has to come out of the gate at a full sprint, making sure the Jazz realize just how talented he is. They’ll likely take a Jaren Jackson-less front court less seriously than usual in the front court, so this is a way that the Grizzlies can stun them with the first punch.

If Valanciunas can keep Gobert occupied the entire night, it could open up a world of opportunity for Ja Morant, Dillon Brooks, and Kyle Anderson to earn their money down low.

It’s easier said than done, but I can almost guarantee you that JV’s stat line will correspond with whether or not this team takes home a win. We’re going to need to see another 29-20 game out of the Lithuanian beast.

If Memphis can accomplish these 3 keys, it could be a great game for the Grizz.