Golden State Warriors vs. Memphis Grizzlies: Who Has the Edge?
By Mike Dill
Feb 8, 2013; Memphis, TN, USA; Golden State Warriors center Andrew Bogut (12) sets the play against Memphis Grizzlies center Marc Gasol (33) during the game at the FedEx Forum. Memphis Grizzlies defeat the Golden State Warriors 99-93. Mandatory Credit: Spruce DerdenUSA TODAY Sports
The Golden State Warriors had a breakout season last year, finishing with a 47-35 record and making it to the second round of the playoffs. Warriors fans are hoping that was just the beginning of the team’s success – and it should be – but there are a few teams out there that the Warriors are going to have some trouble with.
The Memphis Grizzlies are one of those teams. Last season, the Warriors were winless against them. Memphis slowed down the tempo of the games, used size to their advantage, and played great defense. The Warriors kept every game close, but were never able to finish with a win.
Marc Gasol’s great season was recognized when he won Defensive Player of the Year. Tony Allen was selected to the 2013 NBA All-Defensive First team and Mike Conley made All-Defensive Second Team. The Grizzlies are stacked on the defensive end.
Offensively, the team is very balanced. Zach Randolph might be considered the primary scorer, but it’s hard to say. The Grizzlies aren’t flashy in the slightest and might not get a lot of media attention, but they scare every team that walks into their arena.
The Grizzles did lack shooters last season. However, the signing of Mike Miller gives them a bit of a spark off the bench. It is unclear how many minutes he will contribute, but you can be sure that three-pointers will fly whenever he enters the game.
The Warriors should be a better team this season, so their battles with the Grizzlies will be interesting to see play out. Will the Warriors finally be good enough to steal a few games from the Grizzlies?