Memphis Grizzlies Preview 2021

PreviewsNBAWESTERN CONFERENCESouthwest DivisionMemphis Grizzlies

Oct 17

In creating our Memphis Grizzlies preview 2021, we note that last year for the first time in three seasons, this team made the playoffs. Making it into the Play-In Round, the Grizzlies defeated the Golden State Warriors to earn the eighth seed. They then met the top-seed Utah Jazz and lost the series in five games. Only once in their 11 postseason appearances has Memphis gone to the conference finals. Otherwise, they’ve been a First Round or Semifinals casualty.

Grizzlies Frontcourt

Eight-year veteran Steven Adams, who comes to the Grizzlies from New Orleans after playing seven seasons with Oklahoma City, is the anchor in front. Adams is noted for setting picks and crashing the offensive boards. He’s a 59.1 percent shooter who’s averaged 9.6 PPG, 7.7 RPG, and 1.0 BPG. Second-year center Xavier Tillman Sr. is a solid substitute.

Power forward Jaren Jackson Jr., who missed most of last season due to meniscus surgery, returned at the end of the season and looked strong. He’s a fine inside shooter who plays tough in the paint. Additionally, Jackson possesses refined defensive skills. Last year in his rookie season, small forward Desmond Bane was both a fine inside and three-point shooter. Brandon Clarke and Kyle Anderson provide the Grizzlies with fine backup at power and small forward respectively.

Memphis Grizzlies Preview – Backcourt

In his second season, point guard Ja Morant was dynamic, leading the team with 19.1 PPG and 7.4 APG. In 202102022, his third season, the Grizzlies could see Morant achieve a major breakthrough. At this point, he’s one of the most exciting and innovative players in the NBA. Tyus Jones is a steady backup.

At shooting guard last season, Dillon Brooks shot 41.9 percent from the field and De'Anthony Melton hit 43.8 percent of his shots. Both are solid defenders. However, Melton outpaced Brooks from beyond the arc, 41.2 percent to 34.4 percent.