Golden State Warriors key advantage: Defense
For the first few months of the season, when the Warriors were at full strength outside of Klay Thompson, Golden State had a defense that was the best in the league in terms of defensive rating.
They were that good with former Defensive Player of the Year Draymond Green captaining the way.
The Warriors have the playoffs’ third-highest opponents’ turnover rate. Forcing a young Grizzlies team into fewer shots will be vital. The Warriors had the second-best defensive rating during the regular season as well, only beaten out by the Celtics.
What guard Gary Payton II brings off the bench as well will be crucial.
His dad was a Hall of Famer, best known for his defense, and Payton II has continued his father’s legacy in that department. Payton II’s ability to tame Morant will be massive for the Warriors’ success.
The Grizzlies matchup well as Dillon Brooks and Bane are also solid two-way players. Klay Thompson and Jordan Poole will have their hands full on both ends of the court. However, the pre-series advantage will certainly favor Golden State.