Memphis Grizzlies: O.J. Mayo Needs To Raise the Level of His Play

This season O.J. Mayo has shown flashes of greatness and in other games he has looked lackadaisical. The Memphis Grizzlies will need better play out of Mayo in order to compete for a playoff spot. This season Mayo's numbers are down and his shooting percentage is at a career low.

In the Western Conference there are no guaranteed victories. Night in and night out teams have to bring their best against Western Conference foes. Rudy Gay, Zach Randolph, and O.J. Mayo form one of the best young trios in the NBA. As of late it's been a duo more than anything. During the past five games Mayo has averaged 9.0 points along with shooting a dismal 33 percent from the field.

This past weekend against the Miami Heat Mayo shot 1-7 from the field in only 22 minutes of play.

O.J. Mayo is just as valuable as Rudy Gay on the offensive end of the court. Mayo has the skill set to be one of the best shooting guards in the NBA. The season is still young and a lot can happen bet ween now and April. In order for the Grizzlies to make a run the Mayo of old will need to come out of the woodshed. The Grizzlies drafted Mayo to form a formidable wing combo in him and Rudy Gay.

The Grizzlies are facing a stretch were they play the Detroit Pistons, Golden State Warriors, and the Cleveland Cavs. The three games mentioned can help Mayo get out his slump.

The frantic pace the Warriors play will create several opportunities for Mayo to flourish. The Cavs and Pistons are teams where Mayo can polish a few things playing against weaker foes.

The benching over the weekend may have been a wake up call to Mayo, who arrived late to shoot around for the Miami Heat game. Coach Lionel Hollins proved that no one person is bigger than the team. With Xavier Henry breathing down Mayo's neck he will have no choice, but to raise his level of play.