The Memphis Grizzlies know all about being in the news for the wrong reasons and have suffered consequences for it. Whether it was Ja Morant's off-court incidents in 2023, Dillon Brooks' "poking the bear" in their first-round series against the Los Angeles Lakers in 2023, or their coaching change with nine games remaining last season, they have learned their lesson.
The Los Angeles Clippers have been the team with the off-court drama this offseason, stemming from an investigation into possible circumvention of the salary cap when they signed Kawhi Leonard in 2019. While that investigation can go a multitude of ways with numerous scenarios to play out from it, the Grizzlies know how they can rise above the Clippers in the Western Conference standings.
Keep away from off-court drama
The Grizzlies have had a quiet offseason, outside of their transactions, of course. Their offseason moves were loud with the trading of Desmond Bane, extensions for Jaren Jackson Jr. and Santi Aldama, and the signing of Ty Jerome. However, everything off the court has been peaceful, with much doubt coming from their game on the court.
The Clippers could very well perform well on the court, no matter what findings are discovered from the NBA's investigation, but it is a black cloud over the organization nonetheless. The Clippers only finished two games ahead of the Grizzlies in the West standings last season, but they swept the season series 3-0.
Their recent battles have favored the Clippers as they have won six straight in the season series and eight of their last 10 games overall dating back to the 2022-23 season. Memphis has struggled with the plethora of wing defenders the Clippers have thrown at them, but the Grizzlies now have bodies at that position to match up.
The offseason for the Grizzlies made many think that they are taking a step back, but the team feels differently, especially if they remain relatively healthy. Leaving the extra drama outside of the basketball court will help immensely in their path to surpass the Clippers in the West standings this season.