Grizzlies are legit contenders in the west

[ncrizzle]

Yes, we blew a 27 point home court lead in the playoffs along our way to losing to the clippers in 7 games in the first round. Yes we are only 6 games into the season. But whether people want to admit it or not, the grizzlies should not be a surprise if they make it out of the west.

Do not be ignorant like most the heat fans on here and say it was just luck. The grizz would have still beat the heat even if all the 3s the grizz made were actually 2s. Heat shot 18 more fts , got multiple phantom calls,and still lost. People act like it is not possible that the grizzlies actually owned wade the whole game. Instead they will say that he just played like garbage. But this thread isnt about the game last night.

People said zbo and gay could not play together, and they have proved that is bullsh1t. The grizz core has been together for 4 years now and have real chemistry. They play some of the grittiest, toughest defense in the league. They have a top 3 frontcourt, great floor general, and the best perimeter defender in the league.

The grizzlies never really had a problem with the starting 5. It was the bench that was our main concern. Now let me point out that our bench played like hot garbage on opening night, but now for 5 games straight they have been playing incredible. They play with the same defensive tenacity as the starters and can put up points as well. As much as oj has looked good in dallas, he did not fit into the style that we play. And as the bench has been showing ojs points have not been missed.Picking up Bayless and Ellington both for less $$$ than oj has been great so far. Bayless can actually handle the ball and score, Ellington has bought into the team concept and has learned how to play D. He obviously can shoot as well, Pondexter is an excellent defender and 3 pt shooter, and Mo speights has one of the best jumpers on the team. Once Darrell Arther gets back, we will have the athletic/shot blocking big we are needing. DA also has a jumper and can go to the hole.

Now am i saying the grizzlies are winning it all this year ?? NO!!! Im not even guaranteeing that we make it deep into the playoffs. But the grizzlies are a legit team who everyone should fear and not sleep on.

End rant

[All Net]

They are legit contenders and one if only 2/3 teams with legit size to actually hurt Miami in a series.

[RRR3]

O.J. Mayo so far: 21.9 PPG on .490/.609/.862 shooting :bowdown: :bowdown: :bowdown:
Grizzlies should have kept him

[Jam.22_]

Tell me something I don't know. :D

[#number6ix#]

I agree 100% with u they most definitely have some weapons and I think they could be a match nightmare for the lakers in the playoffs... All they have to do is stay healthy and continue to build there chemistry and they'll make some serious noise this post season

[Clippersfan86]

Obviously Grizzlies are contenders. They just gotta try to avoid the Clippers in the playoffs is all :oldlol:

[Levity]

O.J. Mayo so far: 21.9 PPG on .490/.609/.862 shooting :bowdown: :bowdown: :bowdown:
Grizzlies should have kept him

There werent enough shots/minutes available for oj to average even close to those numbers on the grizz. im glad hes on the mavs and is able to play the way he wants to.

but back to the ops point, randolph has been a fantasy god this season!!

[Legends66NBA7]

Obviously Grizzlies are contenders. They just gotta try to avoid the Clippers in the playoffs is all :oldlol:

Not really. They can face them again.

Besides, it was good entertainment too.

[Clippersfan86]

Not really. They can face them again.

Besides, it was good entertainment too.

Never said Grizzlies can't compete with them. Just saying the same way I want the Clippers to avoid Spurs and Lakers... the Grizzlies ideally want to avoid the Clippers. All about matchups.

[Legends66NBA7]

O.J. Mayo so far: 21.9 PPG on .490/.609/.862 shooting :bowdown: :bowdown: :bowdown:
Grizzlies should have kept him

Wouldn't have been getting the same looks.

Plus, the Mavericks have a lot of injuries to their roster, so Mayo is the first option by default. Also, he wants to prove he belongs in the top tier of scorers in this league too, with a fresh start.

In Memphis, he was known for being a volume chucker and making bone head plays. That's why he wasn't getting many looks when Memphis already has the best front court in the league.

[ncrizzle]

O.J. Mayo so far: 21.9 PPG on .490/.609/.862 shooting :bowdown: :bowdown: :bowdown:
Grizzlies should have kept him

Oj is the 1st option there. Im not surprised. He is a scorer, but He is not a very good team player and can be very streaky. His defense is also suspect. Im glad he is doing good, but i am fine with what our team is without him. He was asking for more than we were willing to pay him and had been a locker room problem multiple times. he would still be 6th man here, and he did not play that role right. He would put up starters shot attempts. It seemed like he was just trying to get his and not do what it took to win games when he played here.

[Legends66NBA7]

Never said Grizzlies can't compete with them. Just saying the same way I want the Clippers to avoid Spurs and Lakers... the Grizzlies ideally want to avoid the Clippers. All about matchups.

Would Clipper fans ideally want to face the Thunder ?

[Droid101]

I said it last year and I'll say it again this year; if the Grizz made the Finals, the Heat have no answers. They're just too big and too tough, yet still have quick, athletic players to keep up.

[SpecialQue]

Would Clipper fans ideally want to face the Thunder ?

As a non-Clipper fan, I think the Clippers could easily beat the Thunder in the playoffs. I believed that last season and nothing I've seen has changed my mind. If anything, the Clippers are an even better team now.

[brandonislegend]

Cosign

[RRR3]

I said it last year and I'll say it again this year; if the Grizz made the Finals, the Heat have no answers. They're just too big and too tough, yet still have quick, athletic players to keep up.
They're the last team I want to face if I'm the Heat. Just a poor matchup, especially if Spo insists on playing Battier big minutes guarding Z-Bo, who will average 70 rebounds per game in a series against Battier :facepalm

[gasolina]

Never said Grizzlies can't compete with them. Just saying the same way I want the Clippers to avoid Spurs and Lakers... the Grizzlies ideally want to avoid the Clippers. All about matchups.
Maybe the only thing i'd agree with cf86 at this point. I dont want to see chris paul again in the playoffs. His p&r with blake playing center gave nightmares to marc gasol

[Clippersfan86]

Would Clipper fans ideally want to face the Thunder ?

Yes. The teams that consistently give the Clippers problems are the extremely disciplined and well coached teams. Lakers experience as a unit and basketball IQ as a roster seems to give us issues and the Spurs execution and coaching murders us normally. Doesn't mean Clippers can't beat them any given night just means I'd give those teams the matchup edge in a 7 game series.

Thunder are a team the Clippers have beaten the last 3 years, even before CP3. Harden, Westbrook and Durant have all been held well below their averages in that span (Durant played much much better last year vs Clips but Westbrook and Harden still got locked up).

Thunder's lack of ball movement the last few years and propensity to turn the ball over is bad to do against the Clippers because they can't capitalize on the Clippers biggest weakness which is 3 point defense. If you're not passing much or swinging the ball, you're much easier to guard. Clippers are one of maybe 3 teams who have the size, speed and athleticism to match up with OKC.

[ncrizzle]

Obviously Grizzlies are contenders. They just gotta try to avoid the Clippers in the playoffs is all :oldlol:

almost the exact thing i expected you to come in here and say. Please dont act like the clippers swept the grizz. Series could have gone either way and if not for one of the greatest come backs in nba history, you wouldnt have the series win to use as your crowning achievement when fluffing your team.

But yes, yall won the series and yes yall won a close season opener. But i would much rather play the clipps in the playoffs and get revenge as opposed to trying to avoid them

[ncrizzle]

Maybe the only thing i'd agree with cf86 at this point. I dont want to see chris paul again in the playoffs. His p&r with blake playing center gave nightmares to marc gasol

Wait for DA to get back. Hes our best pick n roll defender. I want revenge damnit

[RRR3]

I think the Grizzlies match up quite well with the Lakers as well.

[Mr. Incredible]

They are legit. Had Miami matched the Grizzlies energy and motivation, it wouldn't of been so bad.

[Clippersfan86]

almost the exact thing i expected you to come in here and say. Please dont act like the clippers swept the grizz. Series could have gone either way and if not for one of the greatest come backs in nba history, you wouldnt have the series win to use as your crowning achievement when fluffing your team.

But yes, yall won the series and yes yall won a close season opener. But i would much rather play the clipps in the playoffs and get revenge as opposed to trying to avoid them

You've also lost 6 of 7 to the Clippers in the regular season. I didn't say the games wouldn't be competitive or a series wouldn't be, calm down. I want the Grizzlies again too but only because I like the matchup and our chances to win the series, especially if healthier than last year.

[RRR3]

They are legit. Had Miami matched the Grizzlies energy and motivation, it wouldn't of been so bad.
Still would have lost, Grizzlies are a horrible matchup for the Heat, same thing happened last year.

[Mr. Incredible]

Still would have lost, Grizzlies are a horrible matchup for the Heat, same thing happened last year.Never said they would win. I said it wouldn't of been as bad

[Fiasco]

Wait for DA to get back. Hes our best pick n roll defender. I want revenge damnit

good luck

[All Net]

Would Clipper fans ideally want to face the Thunder ?

Yes

Clippers match up great with the thunder.

[RRR3]

If you type in "Clippers" on youtube the first two suggestions are "Clippers comeback" and "clippers comeback vs. grizzlies" :oldlol:

[All Net]

Still would have lost, Grizzlies are a horrible matchup for the Heat, same thing happened last year.

Impossible to say

Both miami losses were down to amazing 3 point shooting and lack of effort.

[Clippersfan86]

If you type in "Clippers" on youtube the first two suggestions are "Clippers comeback" and "clippers comeback vs. grizzlies" :oldlol:

:roll: :roll:. Watch this too....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ofYp8T8vOsc

Clippers drop 4 threes in 90 seconds vs OKC. Now replace Mo will the much more explosive scorer Crawford.

[2swift4u]

Grizzlies are a very good team. But I highly doubt that they will hit 60% from 3point range in every game like last night. But of course Miami has no answer to Gasol & Z-Bo anyway...

[ncrizzle]

The main thing is that people will respect our 3 point shooters now. People have always clogged the paint against us and dared our players to shoot the 3. Spreading the floor will help zbo and marc so much.

[RRR3]

The main thing is that people will respect our 3 point shooters now. People have always clogged the paint against us and dared our players to shoot the 3. Spreading the floor will help zbo and marc so much.
Are Ellington and Bayless even going to be playing much in the playoffs, though? Conley and Rudy will have to knock 'em down.

[Clippersfan86]

The main thing is that people will respect our 3 point shooters now. People have always clogged the paint against us and dared our players to shoot the 3. Spreading the floor will help zbo and marc so much.

Your 3 point shooting is being carried by your two new bench additions. It's not something that can be counted on long term over the course of a season. Your bread and butter still needs to be destroying teams in the paint but I agree at least now teams can't pack the paint as much.

[clipps]

I believe the Grizzlies are up there. For them, anything less than the 2nd round should be considered a season failure.

[Clippersfan86]

I believe the Grizzlies are up there. For them, anything less than the 2nd round should be considered a season failure.

Agreed. Who will be the top 4 is the question?

[SpecialQue]

Agreed. Who will be the top 4 is the question?

Lakers/Thunder/Spurs/Clippers in no particular order.

[DuMa]

Im not sure if Clippers can beat the Grizz again in a 7 game playoff series. that was a really close series last playoffs. Kenyon Martin and Reggie Evans were huge for the Clippers in that series. Neither are back this season. It really remains to seen if Blake and DJ can hold up their end vs Marc and Z-Bo. I'll love watching it though. that was a throwback series to the 90s. The grittiness and physical play was epic. Loved every minute of it

[RRR3]

Surprised SpecialQue didn't say anything about the Grizzlies "peppering anguses" or something along those lines.

[Clippersfan86]

Lakers/Thunder/Spurs/Clippers in no particular order.

I think Thunder, Lakers and Clips... but Grizzlies have a chance of being there instead of Spurs depending on matchups. Denver definitely isn't scaring anybody right now. Still find it funny that so many were hailing them the dark horse to win the west, top 3 seed etc.

[Clippersfan86]

Surprised SpecialQue didn't say anything about the Grizzlies "peppering anguses" or something along those lines.

:roll:

[Clippersfan86]

Im not sure if Clippers can beat the Grizz again in a 7 game playoff series. that was a really close series last playoffs. Kenyon Martin and Reggie Evans were huge for the Clippers in that series. Neither are back this season. It really remains to seen if Blake and DJ can hold up their end vs Marc and Z-Bo

Clippers are SIGNIFICANTLY deeper than last year, more so than I even expected. The biggest issue the Grizzlies have currently with the Clippers is Chris Paul's lack of turnovers and ability to penetrate and kick. Prior to CP3 it was our defense because Memphis goes on huge scoring lulls.

If Grizzlies aren't forcing turnovers and running, the Clippers are winning. You can't use the playoff series as an example because the Clippers were up 3-1 before the CP3 and Blake injuries, before losing two straight including one at home.

[SpecialQue]

Surprised SpecialQue didn't say anything about the Grizzlies "peppering anguses" or something along those lines.

The Grizzlies are going to be the Ron Popeil's of the NBA, slicing and dicing and making Julienne fries out of the opposition's anuses. They're going to slide their meat into the league's Showtime Rotisseries, setting it and forgetting it. And when the NBA begs them to stop, the Grizzlies will raise a solitary finger and yell, "BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE!"

[RRR3]

The Grizzlies are going to be the Ron Popeil's of the NBA, slicing and dicing and making Julienne fries out of the opposition's anuses. They're going to slide their meat into the league's Showtime Rotisseries, setting it and forgetting it. And when the NBA begs them to stop, the Grizzlies will raise a solitary finger and yell, "BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE!"
http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/img-thing?.out=jpg&size=l&tid=20304984

[Clippersfan86]

The Grizzlies are going to be the Ron Popeil's of the NBA, slicing and dicing and making Julienne fries out of the opposition's anuses. They're going to slide their meat into the league's Showtime Rotisseries, setting it and forgetting it. And when the NBA begs them to stop, the Grizzlies will raise a solitary finger and yell, "BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE!"

:bowdown: :roll: :roll:

[Draz]

Grizzlies are a great team. I wish em the best.

[senelcoolidge]

The Grizzlies are respectable. They are good. But they are 4 at most in the West. I would love the see them murder the Heat in the playoffs, but highly doubt that would happen. The Clippers are better than the Grizzlies. Not saying this to upset people, but it's just what it is.

[ncrizzle]

Your 3 point shooting is being carried by your two new bench additions. It's not something that can be counted on long term over the course of a season. Your bread and butter still needs to be destroying teams in the paint but I agree at least now teams can't pack the paint as much.

You are misinformed. Quincy Pondexter and Mike Conley were our best 3 pt shooters last year. Now we didnt attempt many 3s last year, but when these 2 did they shot rather well.

Ellington and Bayless can both hit the 3. that is why they were brought in here. But Ellington has shown to be very athletic and a good defender. Dont be surprised if Ellington is the starting 2 soon. Tony Allen only played 16 minutes last night. I expect him to be traded at the deadline to get under the cap. His defense is infectious and he has taught this team how to play D. I love the guy and he will be forever be a part of the grizzlies for the above mentioned reasons. He is the father of grit and grind. But He is getting older and this is his last year on his contract. Best to trade him while he still has some value, bc we will not be able to sign him next year

[DuMa]

Clippers are SIGNIFICANTLY deeper than last year, more so than I even expected. The biggest issue the Grizzlies have currently with the Clippers is Chris Paul's lack of turnovers and ability to penetrate and kick. Prior to CP3 it was our defense because Memphis goes on huge scoring lulls.

If Grizzlies aren't forcing turnovers and running, the Clippers are winning. You can't use the playoff series as an example because the Clippers were up 3-1 before the CP3 and Blake injuries, before losing two straight including one at home.

the depth isnt gonna be a major advantage in the playoffs. the rotation will shorten, as always with every team in the playoffs.

defense stopping z-bo and marc was k-mart and reggie's jobs.

[Clippersfan86]

the depth isnt gonna be a major advantage in the playoffs. the rotation will shorten, as always with every team in the playoffs.

defense stopping z-bo and marc was k-mart and reggie's jobs.

Stop giving credit where it isn't due. K-Mart played solid D but did nothing special. Evans no doubt was a beast in that one series who will forever be embraced by Clippers fans and if not for him Zbo wouldn't have done what he did and Clippers may not have won. I can just as easily say if Butler, CP3, Billups and Griffin were healthy Clippers would have won in 6.

People say Evans+Kmart were a huge part of the team based on watching one playoff series but for the entire season neither did much. Evans always rebounded but got scored on nonstop and didn't score for jack. Kmart played good defense but couldn't score or rebound for jack. Basically both were extremely 1 dimensional and 7 games of better play doesn't make them impossible to replace.

[RaininTwos]

LOL, i disagree

[ncrizzle]

the depth isnt gonna be a major advantage in the playoffs. the rotation will shorten, as always with every team in the playoffs.

defense stopping z-bo and marc was k-mart and reggie's jobs.

As much as i fate cf''s homerism, the clippers did win the playoff series. And they did win the first game of the season. Jamal crawford lit us up while our bench came out with stage fright and laid an egg. Im not saying i think the clipps are better than the grizzlies. I think they are very even. But Im not going to try to play the my team is better than yours game, bc as it stands they have beaten us when we played this year

[mjokc]

Don't we hear this same shit every year?

[Darius]

Yes, we blew a 27 point home court lead in the playoffs along our way to losing to the clippers in 7 games in the first round. Yes we are only 6 games into the season. But whether people want to admit it or not, the grizzlies should not be a surprise if they make it out of the west.

Do not be ignorant like most the heat fans on here and say it was just luck. The grizz would have still beat the heat even if all the 3s the grizz made were actually 2s. Heat shot 18 more fts , got multiple phantom calls,and still lost. People act like it is not possible that the grizzlies actually owned wade the whole game. Instead they will say that he just played like garbage. But this thread isnt about the game last night.

People said zbo and gay could not play together, and they have proved that is bullsh1t. The grizz core has been together for 4 years now and have real chemistry. They play some of the grittiest, toughest defense in the league. They have a top 3 frontcourt, great floor general, and the best perimeter defender in the league.

The grizzlies never really had a problem with the starting 5. It was the bench that was our main concern. Now let me point out that our bench played like hot garbage on opening night, but now for 5 games straight they have been playing incredible. They play with the same defensive tenacity as the starters and can put up points as well. As much as oj has looked good in dallas, he did not fit into the style that we play. And as the bench has been showing ojs points have not been missed.Picking up Bayless and Ellington both for less $$$ than oj has been great so far. Bayless can actually handle the ball and score, Ellington has bought into the team concept and has learned how to play D. He obviously can shoot as well, Pondexter is an excellent defender and 3 pt shooter, and Mo speights has one of the best jumpers on the team. Once Darrell Arther gets back, we will have the athletic/shot blocking big we are needing. DA also has a jumper and can go to the hole.

Now am i saying the grizzlies are winning it all this year ?? NO!!! Im not even guaranteeing that we make it deep into the playoffs. But the grizzlies are a legit team who everyone should fear and not sleep on.

End rant

What I'm confused about is you b:tch about CF86 but you post the same type of homer sh:t all the time that he does.

[Y2Gezee]

The Grizzlies have been somewhat contenders for 2 years now. The West is tough.

But they have the formula to hurt Miami, same as the Knicks do, Same as the Spurs, and potentially the Bulls/Lakers do. Move the ball, give them something to worry about defending in the paint, Rebound well, take care of the ball, make them shoot jumpers.

The Heat need more size. They are still the favorites, but they lucked out last postseason. The lockout helped with injuries to other teams, lack of a real free agency and training camps for teams with major moves. The competition for a repeat will be much stronger.

[brandonislegend]

Stop giving credit where it isn't due. K-Mart played solid D but did nothing special. Evans no doubt was a beast in that one series who will forever be embraced by Clippers fans and if not for him Zbo wouldn't have done what he did and Clippers may not have won. I can just as easily say if Butler, CP3, Billups and Griffin were healthy Clippers would have won in 6.

People say Evans+Kmart were a huge part of the team based on watching one playoff series but for the entire season neither did much. Evans always rebounded but got scored on nonstop and didn't score for jack. Kmart played good defense but couldn't score or rebound for jack. Basically both were extremely 1 dimensional and 7 games of better play doesn't make them impossible to replace.
did you even watch the games? once griffin and DJ went out they had their runs, griffin and DJ didn't even play in the 4th quarters. Not only that z-bo was playing on 1 leg.

[ncrizzle]

What I'm confused about is you b:tch about CF86 but you post the same type of homer sh:t all the time that he does.
I made a thread saying they were contenders. I stated some facts. At the end i said i was not claiming they were winning it all. sorry for making a thread after my team destroyed the heat. The difference is that this was a thread strictly talking about basketball. Also, i will not be starting multiple threads like later on today. I bitch about cf86 digging up meaningless quotes from friends of friends of Blake Griffins second born cousins and such. Also he gets extremely mad when his team loses and gets extremely cocky when they are doing good.

I hardly ever post homer shit. I do not where dark blue shades. i support my team and i will praise them when they deserve it as well as point out their flaws. But thanks for stopping by to b1tch

[dbugz]

Slowly becoming the Atlanta Hawks of the West.

Just a playoffs team fodder.

[bdreason]

Grizz are legit contenders, no doubt. Great perimeter defense, great rebounding, and guys who can score from the post, the perimeter, and attacking the basket.

[zac]

The Grizzlies bench has been referred to as the "Three Point Mafia" since Bayless, Ellington, and Pondexter have all been draining 3s lately, which is something the Grizzlies have never had in this core, especially off the bench. After last nights game I got a little inspired :D

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a86/waldorph86/ThreePointMafiaFix.jpg
Because we're in Memphis and Three 6 Mafia you guys.

The improved bench will be what makes this team a real threat. Finally have a good back up PG who can handle the ball without TOs in Bayless, a spot up shooter with sneaky athleticism in Ellington, a hardnose defender and driver that can shoot corner 3s well in Pondexter. Two of those players weren't here last year and Pondexter is just now coming into his offense. Not to mention Speights and Darrell Arthur (who was sorely missed last year with teams like the Clippers), and who knows what Wroten and Selby will turn into.

[lilgodfather1]

I think we have different definitions of the word contender. To me that means someone/some team that is favoured to make the conference finals. If they were in the East I would totally agree because other than the Heat being an almost lock the other ECF slot is wide open. In the West I think that there are teams that are better than them by a lot like the Lakers, Thunder, and Spurs. No offense to the Vancouver Grizzlies, and I wish them all the best, but I don't see them as contenders at this point. Problem is I just don't see how they get better, without a major trade.

Edit: To clarify I mean their core players are youngish (Gay, Gasol, Conley), but not young enough to expect massive amounts of improvement from them, and Randolph is on the wrong side of 30 at this point. Without a major trade I just don't see them making huge improvements.

[clipps]

Agreed. Who will be the top 4 is the question?

Well, I will definitely not rule out the Lakers. That team has picked it up since starting 1-4. The Spurs, Clippers and Thunder will be in the top 4 for sure. The 4th spot will be a toss up between the Grizz and Lakers.

1) Spurs
2) Clipps
3) Thunder
4) Grizzlies
---
5) Lakers
6) Nuggets

Hate it or love it, that's my prediction.

[2010splash]

LOL!:roll:

The Grizzlies are contenders... perhaps to get out of the first round and get destroyed by the Lakers, Thunder or Spurs.

[2010splash]

Well, I will definitely not rule out the Lakers. That team has picked it up since starting 1-4. The Spurs, Clippers and Thunder will be in the top 4 for sure. The 4th spot will be a toss up between the Grizz and Lakers.

1) Spurs
2) Clipps
3) Thunder
4) Grizzlies
---
5) Lakers
6) Nuggets

Hate it or love it, that's my prediction.
Good God!:roll: The Clippers second? Grizzlies fourth? Four different teams ahead of the Lakers? (who have by far the most talented team in the West) :roll: :roll: :roll:

[All Net]

Well, I will definitely not rule out the Lakers. That team has picked it up since starting 1-4. The Spurs, Clippers and Thunder will be in the top 4 for sure. The 4th spot will be a toss up between the Grizz and Lakers.

1) Spurs
2) Clipps
3) Thunder
4) Grizzlies
---
5) Lakers
6) Nuggets

Hate it or love it, that's my prediction.

Does go to show how deep the west is.

[Clippersfan86]

did you even watch the games? once griffin and DJ went out they had their runs, griffin and DJ didn't even play in the 4th quarters. Not only that z-bo was playing on 1 leg.

Zbo missed 13 games to start the season :oldlol: so the not being 100 percent excuse is getting old. Griffin and CP3 both got injured at the end of game 4... when Clippers took 3-1 lead.

[PyrrhusX]

By the end of the season:
1. San Antonio
2. OKC
3. Lakers
4. Grizzlies

They would be a matchup nightmare for the Heat. They would also be a better team than last year if they stay healthy going into the playoffs. I think ZBo wasnt totally healthy last year? Granted, we have only seen a small part of the season and they did lose to the Clipps.

If not OKC, Ill be rooting for the grizz to make it out of the west (cos I know GSW have no chance) :applause: :applause:

[clipps]

Good God!:roll: The Clippers second? Grizzlies fourth? Four different teams ahead of the Lakers? (who have by far the most talented team in the West) :roll: :roll: :roll:

Umm, the Clipps and Grizz are pretty good brah.

[Micku]

Well, I will definitely not rule out the Lakers. That team has picked it up since starting 1-4. The Spurs, Clippers and Thunder will be in the top 4 for sure. The 4th spot will be a toss up between the Grizz and Lakers.

1) Spurs
2) Clipps
3) Thunder
4) Grizzlies
---
5) Lakers
6) Nuggets

Hate it or love it, that's my prediction.

The Mavs might be really good this season. They are doing okay without Dirk. And OJ Mayo is a nice pick up, so I think they will be top 5 or 6. Ppl might be overlooking them.

I disagree with the idea that Memphis wanting to avoid the Clips. It could've gone either way. But I think they are team that could cause trouble in the West. I do not think they can get out of the West, but they can cause a scare. They could go six or seven games with any team.

[I<3NBA]

they are legit contenders IF they get out of the west. in fact, they would be heavy favorites to be champions if they win the west and face Miami.

UNFORTUNATELY, they are in the west where they face teams that are bad match ups for them.

[Whoah10115]

I wanna see what they do with Rudy Gay.


Being honest, I would rather another player. But Gay can work...he just has to be less Gay.



A guy that I'd really like for them is Ben Gordon. People may wonder about that, but that guy would still beast off the bench, and I think he'd do great alongside Mike Conley. Tony Allen could even play some 3, as he can defend 3's and that's what it's all about for him. Best man defender in the game.

[RRR3]

I wanna see what they do with Rudy Gay.


Being honest, I would rather another player. But Gay can work...he just has to be less Gay.



A guy that I'd really like for them is Ben Gordon. People may wonder about that, but that guy would still beast off the bench, and I think he'd do great alongside Mike Conley. Tony Allen could even play some 3, as he can defend 3's and that's what it's all about for him. Best man defender in the game.
http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20120324151825/adventuretimewithfinnandjake/images/e/e6/If_you_know_what_I_mean..png

[LakersForlife]

all about wayne ellington.GOAT

[zac]

Zbo missed 13 games to start the season :oldlol: so the not being 100 percent excuse is getting old. Griffin and CP3 both got injured at the end of game 4... when Clippers took 3-1 lead.
You got your numbers backwards. Z-bo missed 30+ games last year.

[ncrizzle]

Zbo missed 13 games to start the season :oldlol: so the not being 100 percent excuse is getting old. Griffin and CP3 both got injured at the end of game 4... when Clippers took 3-1 lead.
Zbo missed 31 games, not 13. He was brought back early bc we wanted him to try to get his feet under him before the playoffs. He was not %100. He is now and is beasting. A worse team upset the spurs and took the thunder to 7games in 2011 without Rudy gay. This is the first time the core has been healthy and the supporting cast is better as well.

Also in the lock out season practically everyone was injured. We also were missing our best big man off the bench.

[Clippersfan86]

Zbo missed 31 games, not 13. He was brought back early bc we wanted him to try to get his feet under him before the playoffs. He was not %100. He is now and is beasting. A worse team upset the spurs and took the thunder to 7games in 2011 without Rudy gay. This is the first time the core has been healthy and the supporting cast is better as well.

Also in the lock out season practically everyone was injured. We also were missing our best big man off the bench.

Your right I did have it wrong. Still dude played more than half the season and at least health wise seemed pretty solid come playoff time. He just wasn't ready for the man beast Reggie Evans :no:

[brandonislegend]

Zbo missed 13 games to start the season :oldlol: so the not being 100 percent excuse is getting old. Griffin and CP3 both got injured at the end of game 4... when Clippers took 3-1 lead.

You are one dumb ****. If you even watched the series he was hobbling around the whole game. He barely could run. If someone is playing on 1 leg I hope another nba player would have his way against him, stop bringing up griffin he didn't even play the 4th cause he was a liability defensively and offensively, wasn't hitting free throws and his jumper is broke. Look at z-bo stats the playoffs before he had a crazy run similar to dirks run 2 years ago.

[zac]

Your right I did have it wrong. Still dude played more than half the season and at least health wise seemed pretty solid come playoff time. He just wasn't ready for the man beast Reggie Evans :no:
He and Gasol dominated McDyese and Duncan 2 years ago when he was in top form. Last year he was no where near himself in the playoffs or end of the season. It might have seemed like he was ok but if you watched him play here night in and night out, you'd know the difference. Go back and watch the playoff series against the Spurs and Thunder 2 years ago. It's not even the same person because of his injury. He seems to be as close to 100% as he can be now though.

[BuffaloBill]

Grizzlies would win the east

[Whoah10115]

I think if the Grizzlies play OKC in the first round, then OKC is bounced in the first round.

[ncrizzle]

Your right I did have it wrong. Still dude played more than half the season and at least health wise seemed pretty solid come playoff time. He just wasn't ready for the man beast Reggie Evans :no:

Lets remember that last year was a lock out season with no training camp. So he wasnt really in the best shape to begin with. 31 games in a lock out season is like 45 in a regular season. Imagine coming off an injury doing 13 games in 17 nights? Just admit that its very likely that he was not %100. Its just ignorant to think otherwise. Dude is averaging 16/15 a a game now. Weather or not he was %100 then doesnt mean shit because he is %100 now and will beast. zbo would embarass evans if they played tomorrow.

[RRR3]

Grizzlies would win the east
They have maybe the best chance against the Heat, but they could lose to another team. Besides, LBJ is hard to stop in 7 game series.

[ncrizzle]

They have maybe the best chance against the Heat, but they could lose to another team. Besides, LBJ is hard to stop in 7 game series.

The grizz actually should be in the east.Only WC team east of the mississippi river. ****ing Raptors.....

[andremiller07]

Grizz can def beat any team in the NBA when Zach, Rudy and co are on fire, I think they have been a contender since they beat the Spurs back 2-3 years ago, the team plays atheltic smart basketball and they have shooters not much more you can ask for def a threat to anyone.

[Kujo]

This team goes as Z-Bo goes. He's back to his beast mode.

I like this team a lot. As long as everyone stays healthy, they'll be dangerous.

[gasolina]

:lol
Your right I did have it wrong. Still dude played more than half the season and at least health wise seemed pretty solid come playoff time. He just wasn't ready for the man beast Reggie Evans :no:
You call reggie evans a man beast yet fully discount his and kmart's contributions during the series a few posts back.

:biggums:

[Birmingham1955]

Can you imagine how unstoppable they would be if they still had OJ Mayo

[gasolina]

Can you imagine how unstoppable they would be if they still had OJ Mayo
:wtf:

It was obvious that OJ Mayo needed to be the #1 option to be effective. He ain't getting that in Memphis. Good for him to do well in big D.

You think he'd still be as effective on 24 minutes off the bench?

[Mr. NBA]

We are legit. Just have to stay healthy. The bench is allowing our startersto actually rest throughout the beginning of this season.

[Clippersfan86]

:lol
You call reggie evans a man beast yet fully discount his and kmart's contributions during the series a few posts back.

:biggums:

No you misread it. During Grizzlies series they were great, especially Reggie. I was saying some are using that series to say they were a huge part of the team but the rest of the year Martin was average and Evans was one dimensional. With the Odom we have gotten though I definitely miss Evans.

[Clippersfan86]

You are one dumb ****. If you even watched the series he was hobbling around the whole game. He barely could run. If someone is playing on 1 leg I hope another nba player would have his way against him, stop bringing up griffin he didn't even play the 4th cause he was a liability defensively and offensively, wasn't hitting free throws and his jumper is broke. Look at z-bo stats the playoffs before he had a crazy run similar to dirks run 2 years ago.

Okay so Zbo was injured... So was Billups, Griffin, CP3, Butler and Williams but nobody seems to factor that in for the Clippers who were far more banged up.

[KungFuJoe]

Grizzlies seem to always be contenders as of late.

Just like the Dodgers.

[ncrizzle]

Okay so Zbo was injured... So was Billups, Griffin, CP3, Butler and Williams but nobody seems to factor that in for the Clippers who were far more banged up.

who gives a sh1t . You hang your hat on the clipps winning that series and bring it up as many times as you can. Forget injuries, comebacks, bad officiating, etc... The clippers won in a series that could have gone either way. Ill say it to you for the 20th time. Hats off to the clippers who won the series out right. Are you not getting tired of repeating the same things over and over again? Im not worried about last season. Im worried about this season.

[Clippersfan86]

who gives a sh1t . You hang your hat on the clipps winning that series and bring it up as many times as you can. Forget injuries, comebacks, bad officiating, etc... The clippers won in a series that could have gone either way. Ill say it to you for the 20th time. Hats off to the clippers who won the series out right. Are you not getting tired of repeating the same things over and over again? Im not worried about last season. Im worried about this season.

I'm not repeating anything. Somebody said the Clippers aren't a tough matchup for the Grizzlies and I responded. Take away the playoff series and Clippers have won 6 of 7 regular season games anyways and 8 of 10.

[ncrizzle]

Heat and thunder down. Next up, the Knicks:rockon:

[Fiasco]

Knicks vs. Grizzlies could be nice. As much as I want to I can't bring myself to cheer for Memphis.

[ncrizzle]

Knicks vs. Grizzlies could be nice. As much as I want to I can't bring myself to cheer for Memphis.
respect :cheers:

[zac]

Knicks vs. Grizzlies could be nice. As much as I want to I can't bring myself to cheer for Memphis.
I'm going to this game tomorrow night. I'm almost as stoked to see Sheed play as I am to see this Grizzlies squad this year.

[Crown&Coke]

I used to love watching the older spurs, their style of play was just brilliant. Excellent defense and offensive execution. Memphis now takes that title for me.

[gasolina]

I like how the team responded to runs by the Thunder. Couple of years ago they would try and run back and see if they can score a quick one. Now everyone "settle down and be cool", walks up the court (wasting more clock), runs a play, high % shot.

[ncrizzle]

https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/558860_10152101527992316_830642908_n.jpg

[blood yes]

Wow, I love how back in November, everyone was saying how grizz isnt a top 4 team and how lakers would be the favorites in the west...

How things have changed!

Grizzlies have a VERY good chance of being the top seed in the west come playoff time

[SevereUpInHere]

Wow, I love how back in November, everyone was saying how grizz isnt a top 4 team and how lakers would be the favorites in the west...

How things have changed!

Grizzlies have a VERY good chance of being the top seed in the west come playoff time


Griz would scare the shit out of me if we were in the West. I think if they make it out of the West they win the title, they beat us and Miami I think.

[knickswin]

Griz would scare the shit out of me if we were in the West. I think if they make it out of the West they win the title, they beat us and Miami I think.

not to get ahead of ourselves, but if the knicks were to come out of the east, grizzlies would be the team I'd least like to see in the finals. thunder, spurs, and clippers I think they'd have a fighting shot against ... a series against the grizzlies could be ugly

[knickswin]

grizzlies are just so good this year. they've been very good for three years now, but thankfully for other teams, they've been one of the worst shooting teams in the league and have had to deal with injuries to gay and zbo.

if they can keep it up, they've got to be the favorites. marc ad zbo are easily the best front court in the league and you can't try to go small ball on them because their wings are all athletic. mike conley is playing great. marc gasol is just a great, great player--skilled, unselfish, high IQ, my favorite center in the league. just scary. good thing my knicks aren't out west.

[Al Thornton]

i still don't think they can beat the clippers. that is just a bad match up for them, but if they avoid clippers they can definitely get to the finals.

[SevereUpInHere]

not to get ahead of ourselves, but if the knicks were to come out of the east, grizzlies would be the team I'd least like to see in the finals. thunder, spurs, and clippers I think they'd have a fighting shot against ... a series against the grizzlies could be ugly

Not suggesting we're coming out of the East at all, but if we somehow manage it, yeah like you say, they're the team we match up with worst. Same deal with Miami. The Grizz bigs feast against them.

[brandonislegend]

i still don't think they can beat the clippers. that is just a bad match up for them, but if they avoid clippers they can definitely get to the finals.

You realize it went 7 games and Z-bo was playing on 1 leg right? and the Clippers made an incredible comeback to even win.

He is playing like he did now when the Grizzlies beat the Spurs and took OKC to 7 games.

[Al Thornton]

You realize it went 7 games and Z-bo was playing on 1 leg right? and the Clippers made an incredible comeback to even win.

He is playing like he did now when the Grizzlies beat the Spurs and took OKC to 7 games.

not just based on that series, clippers have been able to beat grizzlies consistently since before they got paul.

[Artillery]

You realize it went 7 games and Z-bo was playing on 1 leg right? and the Clippers made an incredible comeback to even win.

He is playing like he did now when the Grizzlies beat the Spurs and took OKC to 7 games.

lol at the hypocrisy of making excuses for Zbo when the Grizzlies beat an injured Spurs team in 2011. Ginobili broke his arm in the last game of the regular season and Duncan sprained both his ankles a week before the playoffs resulting in the worst post-season numbers of his career.

[qrich]

You realize it went 7 games and Z-bo was playing on 1 leg right? and the Clippers made an incredible comeback to even win.

He is playing like he did now when the Grizzlies beat the Spurs and took OKC to 7 games.

And the Clippers were fully healthy?

And what has the record between the sides been the past few years, out of the playoffs?

[Clippersfan86]

Brandon never learns.. it's sad. Let's use Zach Randolph injured excuse when dude was back from surgery for 2-3 months before the playoffs when the Clippers had their top 5 players injured DURING the playoffs (outside of Billups who was already out). Butler broke his hand in game 1, Griffin hyperextended his knee and tore his Meniscus that series... Paul pulled his groin in that series. Mo Williams had a shooting hand injury from game 1.

Give the Grizzlies a 100 percent healthy Zbo instead of 85 percent... and give the Clippers a fully healthy CP3, Griffin, Butler, Billups, Williams and Clippers win in 5 tops. Clippers have now won 7 of 8 regular season games vs the Grizzlies and won as the road team FAR more banged up with 10 new players, shit coach and no time to gel in offseason in the PLAYOFFS. Clippers have every right to be considered a bad matchup until the Grizzlies prove they can beat them somewhat often.

[brandonislegend]

Brandon never learns.. it's sad. Let's use Zach Randolph injured excuse when dude was back from surgery for 2-3 months before the playoffs when the Clippers had their top 5 players injured DURING the playoffs (outside of Billups who was already out). Butler broke his hand in game 1, Griffin hyperextended his knee and tore his Meniscus that series... Paul pulled his groin in that series. Mo Williams had a shooting hand injury from game 1.

Give the Grizzlies a 100 percent healthy Zbo instead of 85 percent... and give the Clippers a fully healthy CP3, Griffin, Butler, Billups, Williams and Clippers win in 5 tops. Clippers have now won 7 of 8 regular season games vs the Grizzlies and won as the road team FAR more banged up with 10 new players, shit coach and no time to gel in offseason in the PLAYOFFS. Clippers have every right to be considered a bad matchup until the Grizzlies prove they can beat them somewhat often.

He played 15 mins a game for 11 regular season games...

[Whoah10115]

Brandon never learns.. it's sad. Let's use Zach Randolph injured excuse when dude was back from surgery for 2-3 months before the playoffs when the Clippers had their top 5 players injured DURING the playoffs (outside of Billups who was already out). Butler broke his hand in game 1, Griffin hyperextended his knee and tore his Meniscus that series... Paul pulled his groin in that series. Mo Williams had a shooting hand injury from game 1.

Give the Grizzlies a 100 percent healthy Zbo instead of 85 percent... and give the Clippers a fully healthy CP3, Griffin, Butler, Billups, Williams and Clippers win in 5 tops. Clippers have now won 7 of 8 regular season games vs the Grizzlies and won as the road team FAR more banged up with 10 new players, shit coach and no time to gel in offseason in the PLAYOFFS. Clippers have every right to be considered a bad matchup until the Grizzlies prove they can beat them somewhat often.


I'm not saying you're wrong, but the difference in Randolph last year to this year is injury-related and the difference between him and those guys healthy is a bigger plus for Memphis than it is for LA. Of course, the Clippers are better this year. The Grizzlies are, as well. But Randolph being healthier in the Clippers series last year would have been a bigger difference than your guys being hurt. He was back less than 2 months and was visibly worse than he is now. It might not change the outcome but that was bigger than any of the Clippers' injuries.