NBA Power Rankings week 11: OKC Thunder continues hot streak
15-22. Previous: 19th. Memphis Grizzlies. 16. team. 211.
Memphis Grizzlies:
Offense: (108.3) 18th
Defense: (112.0) 25th
Net: (minus -3.7) 23rd
Games Week 11 (2-1): Won vs. Grizzlies: 140-114, Suns: 121-114, Lost to Kings: 123-128
Games Week 12 (3 games): Tues vs. Wolves | Fri vs Spurs | Sun vs Warriors
The Grizzlies have put things together and while young squads often can’t close games this Memphis team seems to channel the devil may care attitude.
One factor is Ja Morant who (much like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander) displays the chops of a veteran, particularly in his game management. Where he differs is his similarity to Russell Westbrook in the demonstrative killer gene to take it to the rim with wild abandon.
Although that’s a quality you want in your superstar the fear is his size which is slight and that’s being kind.
Regardless, this young squad has played with an intensity that looks much closer to excelling than their similar counterparts such as the Suns who they beat this week and even the Kings who they lost to this week.
Moving forward there is a very good reason for the Memphis fans to be excited about this squad. Both their cornerstone players (Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr.) are 20 years old. Factor in Dillon Brooks and Brandon Clarke who are both 23 (although Brooks will turn 24 soon) and that’s an impressive base to build around. Even their vets Jae Crowder (29), Jonas Valanciunas (27) and Kyle Anderson (26) are all under 30.