The Wild, Wild West: A Team-By-Team Preview Of The NBA Western Conference

Memphis Grizzlies (Southwest Division)

Last year’s result: Regular Season (50-32). Lost in Western Conference Quarterfinals to Oklahoma City Thunder in 7 games.  

Significant players added: Vince Carter, Jordan Adams (Rookie), Jarnell Stokes (Rookie)

Significant players lost: Mike Miller

Projected starting lineup: Mike Conley, Tony Allen, Tayshaun Prince, Zach Randolph, Marc Gasol

Analysis: When Marc Gasol suffered an MCL injury, the Grizzlies struggled, going 10-13 with him out of the lineup. Upon his return, Gasol re-energized the Grizzlies and powered them into the playoffs. Their matchup with the Thunder was an instant classic, with four of the seven games going to OT.

The Grizzlies made a splash by picking up veteran guard Vince Carter, giving them some desperately needed offense. However, sharp shooter Mike Miller, has followed former teammate LeBron James to Cleveland, leaving Memphis short again on perimeter shooting and offensive-minded players. The Grizzlies are hoping to get some meaningful minutes from rookie shooting guard Jordan Adams. They’ll look to him to provide some scoring off their bench, which is lacking for options outside of Courtney Lee (10 PPG). Jarnell Stokes is also an interesting rookie to keep an eye on. At 6’8, 260 pounds, Stokes looks and plays like his teammate Zach Randolph. He makes up for offensive skill and finesse with a lot of hustle, which can really make an impression during the summer league. All in all, Memphis’ offseason is practically a wash when considering that Carter is replacing Miller on the wing, and the fact that it’s too early to tell how Adams or Stokes will progress during their rookie campaigns.

Grade: C+