It’s been a rough couple of games for the Memphis Grizzlies. Prior to Thursday’s game against the Sacramento Kings and Friday’s game against the juggernaut Los Angeles Lakers, the Grizzlies were 15-4 in their last 19 games. But, there’s still plenty of reason for optimism. Ja Morant is building a substantial lead in the ‘Rookie of the Year’ race. And, the Grizzlies are still currently in possession of the 8th seed in the Western Conference playoffs at the moment.
Hiccups like that Kings game are going to happen when you can’t make shots and you can’t make stops on defense on the road. The loss to the Lakers, the best team in the Western Conference, isn’t shocking at all…especially when Anthony Davis and LeBron James put up 28 and 32 points respectively. But, this is still a young team, and the fact that they’re even in the race at all is a surprise.
Even with the tough trip to California, the Grizzlies are still three wins better than the Portland Trail Blazers. The talent is coming together nicely in Memphis. What was once a concern appears to be fading with every game. But, it could be that the remaining schedule proves to be the biggest obstacle to completing this miracle season with a postseason berth.
The Grizzlies have 14 games left on the road – only one of those (@ the Atlanta Hawks on 3/2) comes against a team that isn’t in the playoff race. They have 12 more games at home, and outside of hosting the Lakers and Raptors, that’ll be where they have their best opportunity to stockpile wins. The Trail Blazers and the San Antonio Spurs are on their heels. Surprisingly enough, the young New Orleans Pelicans are in the hunt as well (actually, they’re at better odds to get that 8th seed than the Spurs are).
This is going to be a grueling schedule and a tight race down the stretch. But, it’s still a position that none of us saw the Grizzlies in this season. That’s what’s important to remember, even should they find themselves on the outside looking in. The future is bright.
The Grizzlies tip off against the Los Angeles Clippers tonight in Los Angeles at 9:30PM CST. The Clippers are currently 3rd in the Western Conference. They travel to Houston to play the 4th place Houston Rockets on Wednesday before coming back home to Memphis for a shot at revenge against the Kings.
Stoney Keeley is the Editor in Chief of The SoBros Network. He is a strong supporter of Team GSD and #BeBetter. “Big Natural” covers the Tennessee Titans, Nashville, and a whole wealth of nonsense. Follow on Twitter @StoneyKeeley
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