5 reasons why the short-handed Memphis Grizzlies upset the Warriors in Game 2

No 4. Memphis Grizzlies have a deeper, more talented bench

The Grizzlies went six guys deep into their bench, five of which played 15+ minutes each. Golden State only went four players deep, two of which played 15+ minutes.

Memphis’ bread and butter all season long was their flexibility and depth, but he’s been much more selective of his rotation in the playoffs.

In Game 2 of this series, Head Coach Taylor Jenkins went deep into his bench out of necessity. Dillon Brooks became unavailable after being ejected a few minutes into the game and Jaren Jackson Jr. fouled out of the game with four minutes left in the game.

It’s a good thing things worked out the way they did because Williams had a huge night for the team. Tyus Jones’ steady head gave the Grizzlies some extra ball handling that allowed Ja to not have to bring the ball up the court to initiate the offense every play.

Jenkins needs to continue to trust his bench in Game 3 and beyond.

No 5. Grizzlies forced Golden State into uncharacteristic turnovers

Memphis forced Golden State into committing 18 total turnovers in Game 2, far more than the 14.3 turnovers they averaged during the regular season.

Those turnovers resulted in extra possessions for Memphis and allowed them to control the tempo of the game and get extra shot attempts.

Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, two of the team’s primary ball handlers, combined to commit nine turnovers in Game 2.

The Golden State Warriors will host the Memphis Grizzlies for Game 3 at the Chase Center on May 7 at 7:30 PM CT on ABC.