The Memphis Grizzlies were one of the most fun and beloved teams in the NBA last season but the energy around the team has shifted this season. Their fun-loving attitude is now considered cocky, as the Grizzlies are trying to etch their name as one of the consistent contenders in the NBA.
Their superstar point guard Ja Morant has been one of the reasons fans have been souring on the Grizzlies. There have been negative reports about Morant beating up a 17-year-old and recently, his entourage harassing the Indiana Pacers by aiming red lasers at them, something the Pacers thought was a gun.
One of the most egregious comments came earlier in the season, as Morant told ESPN the only team he was worried about in the NBA was the Boston Celtics and that he was fine in the West. People have mocked that statement endlessly due to the Grizz having a 16-16 record against the West.
Morant has defended his comments after the Grizzlies lost to the Boston Celtics tonight.
“I don’t care. Honestly I said what I said and I meant that,” Morant said. “The confidence I had when I said that, is the confidence that got us to the point we’re at now, being a top team in the league.” (h/t Boston.com)
The West saw multiple teams get stronger at the deadline, with the Suns, Mavericks, Clippers, and Lakers all making big moves at the deadline to improve their roster.
Are The Memphis Grizzlies Legitimate Contenders?
The Grizz have proven consistency in the NBA over the last 3 seasons and threatened to beat the Golden State Warriors in the playoffs. Their flaws have been on display this season but they’re still a top team despite that. They are a genuine threat to everyone by virtue of playing fast and fearless basketball.
The issue with the Grizz in the playoffs will be their half-court creation. Their pace could be their biggest rival as the game slows down in the playoffs and Morant hasn’t proven himself as an elite halfcourt creator just yet. Hopefully, we see that side of his game. But for now, it might be hard for the Grizz to get past teams like Denver or Phoenix in a playoff series.
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