5 reasons why the Memphis Grizzlies got upset in Game 1 vs Timberwolves

The Memphis Grizzlies, the No. 2 in the Western Conference playoffs, were upset by No. 7 seed Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 1 of the first-round playoff series 130-117.

Fortunately for Memphis, this is a best-of-seven series, which means the Grizzlies are still in this series, but the home-court advantage just evaporated by losing the series home opener.

The Memphis Grizzlies, playing their first game in six days, were upset by a scrappy and motivated Minnesota Timberwolves team that had to play their way into the playoffs via the NBA Play-In Tournament.

The Wolves got a huge performance from second-year player Anthony Edwards in his first-ever playoff game.

Despite finishing the game with 30 points, Ja Morant was only able to make one field goal attempt in the entire second half.

Let’s take a look at a few factors that led to Minnesota upsetting Memphis in Game 1.

No 5. The Grizzlies couldn’t make their free throws in Game 1

There was a huge point differential on the free-throw line for Memphis. The Grizzlies were abysmal from the line, which shouldn’t be surprising. Memphis was one of the worst free-throw shooting teams in the entire league during the regular season.

The Grizzlies were 32 of 43 from the line, which works out to just over 74% from the FT line. Minnesota was much more efficient, nailing 24 of their 27 free-throw attempts in Game 1.

Memphis knew free throws would be an important part of any playoff series, which is one of the reasons why they created a custom pro-wrestling style championship title for the team’s best free-throw shooter.