Golden State Warriors: Exposing each Play-In team’s weakness

Memphis Grizzlies’ weakness: Star Power

Before you jump to react, I am NOT saying Ja Morant doesn’t have star potential. I’m not even looking to discredit the promising future of Jaren Jackson Jr. or anyone else on the Memphis Grizzlies.

With this being said, it is obvious that their strength is in their depth and all-around balanced attack. The Grizzlies do everything well and rank anywhere from average to above average in every category. Consequently, their weakness is the fact that they aren’t elite at any specific aspect and lack the superstar power to tilt the odds in their favor.

Morant obviously has the capabilities to dominate a game. The second-year star is averaging 19.3 points and 7.3 assists but is an underwhelming 3-point shooter. Morant has played big before, like in last year’s Play-In when he erupted for 35 points and 8 assists in a nail-biter against the Portland Trail Blazers.

The Grizzlies truly have strength in numbers. Seven different players are averaging 10+ points and four of them are above 15 points per game. Their defense is sound, albeit inexperienced and therefore more prone to gambling for steals and fouls.

It is simple, for the Warriors to beat the Grizzlies, they need to put pressure on them to make big plays. The Grizzlies are comfortable getting everyone involved, but will their supporting cast rise to the occasion?

Memphis is just 16-18 in clutch games this season, indicating they might crumble under pressure if the Warriors can keep the game close. However, the Dubs aren’t much better, in fact, they are actually worse at just 12-16. Yet, something tells me Stephen Curry, who has scored the 10th most clutch points this season, will find a way to get the job done.