5 Disturbing early season trends the Grizzlies must fix
By Tyler Watts
2. Finishing inside
The Grizzlies struggle to hit jumpers and cannot finish at the rim. They are shooting just 60.7 percent in the restricted area which is the third-worst mark in the NBA. Memphis is a bit undersized and lacks stronger inside finishers. Still, being near the bottom in both percentages creates a massive problem.
Ja Morant will help. He is a career 65.2 percent finisher within three feet who can blow past his defender at any moment. His presence will create space for others to attack, but it will be too late if the Grizzlies wait for him.
Even if they split the remaining games of his suspension, which seems unlikely, they will be 9-17 on the night he returns. To get to .500 on the season, Memphis must win 32 of their final 57 contests or 56.1 percent. That is a tall task with Morant trying to get up to speed and the Grizzlies lacking depth. It is not out of the question, but 41-41 at the end of the season likely puts them in the Play-In Tournament.
The Memphis Grizzlies desperately need a center upgrade with Steven Adams and Brandon Clarke out. If they can get someone who finishes well at the rim and rebounds, the franchise will have a shot. The Grizzlies certainly need more efficiency.