Memphis Grizzlies: 5 biggest questions heading into Game 2 vs Wolves

No 2. Will Head Coach Taylor Jenkins go deeper into his bench in Game 2?

Taylor Jenkins has to consider leaning on one of the biggest strengths of the Grizzlies— their bench.

Tyus Jones, one of the best backup point guards in the NBA and the league’s leader in assist-to-turnover played just 16 minutes in the game. How?

John Konchar, who has been a spark plug off efficeincy off the bench, got zero minutes in Game 1.

If things aren’t working in Game 2, Jenkins has to get creative with his lineups and take some gambles. He has to believe in his players even if the analytics may be against it. The Grizzlies, equipped with arguably the best bench in the NBA, have to better utilize it in Game 2.

No 3. Will the Memphis Grizzlies be able to stay out of foul trouble?

The Grizzlies could not stay out of foul trouble in Game 1. Steven Adams, Dillon Brooks, and Jaren Jackson Jr. could never find their rhthym due to lengthy stays on the bench— they combined to commit 14 fouls.

The Minnesota Timberwolves also experienced several players in foul trouble. That probably won’t happen again in Game 2. They had four players with 5 fouls each in Game 1.

The Grizzlies can’t afford to have both Steven Adams and Jaren Jackson Jr. in foul trouble. They need at least one of them on the court for a majority of the game.

Adams’ offensive rebounding helps Memphis to get second-chance points. Jackson’s shot-blocking prowress helps the Grizzlies protect the basket.