Grizzlies Playing Tough Defense and Surging in Western Conference

One team that has been on the rise and is not receiving much attention is the Memphis Grizzlies. The Grizzlies were looking to win their eighth consecutive game but fell to the Portland Trail Blazers (a tough home team) on the road in the second of a back-to-back. The Grizzlies currently are at the top of the Southwestern Conference with a record of 10-6.

After their come from behind win last night against the Golden State Warriors in Oakland, California the Grizzlies were able to force turnovers in order to get points in bunches and cut the lead. The Warriors were making all of their shots during the first half, while the Grizzlies were not able to find their offensive touch.

The Grizzlies were down by as many as 20 points in the second half before pulling out for the one point win. Led by Rudy Gay’s 23 points, the Grizzlies were able to find their offense in the second half, and kept the high-powered Warriors at bay.

However, one thing that these Grizzlies have been able to do is play tough defense throughout the game and wear down their opponents towards the end. Thanks to better all-around play from point guard Mike Conley Jr., O.J. Mayo, Marc Gasol, Speights and Gay, the Grizzlies have found a way to become a threat in the Western Conference. 

The Grizzlies have also been on this winning streak without starting forward Zach Randolph (who is out with a knee ligament injury) thanks to the play of Marreese Speights and Dante Cunningham who have been good in stretches. Head coach Lionel Hollins has been able to get the most out of his young team and becoming a defensive hungry team is one way to get noticed in the NBA.