Over/Under: Memphis Grizzlies 2023-24

MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES: 45.5 WINS – UNDER Key Additions Marcus Smart (trade) Derrick Rose (free agency) Key Subtractions Dillon Brooks…

MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES: 45.5 WINS – UNDER

Key Additions

Marcus Smart (trade)Derrick Rose (free agency)

Key Subtractions

Dillon BrooksTyus JonesStephen Adams (injury)Brandon Clarke (injury)Ja Morant’s gun…hopefully

Rotation

GuardsJa Morant, Marcus Smart, Derrick RoseWingsDesmond Bane, Luke Kennard, Ziaire WilliamsForwardsDavid Roddy, Santi Aldama, John KoncharBigsJaren Jackson Jr., Xavier Tillman, Kenny Lofton

Random thoughts, opinions, comments, declarations, queries, editorials, etc.

The Griz eff’d around and found out. From start to finish, they were an arrogant bunch. From Ja’s declaration that they were “good in the West” to Idiot Dillon Brooks’ attempt at “poking the bear,” the Grizzlies essentially made a fool of themselves. Unfortunate, since they have so much talent on the team and they’re super well coached.

Gone is Dillon Brooks, whose refusal to face the media after a miserable playoff series vs the Lakers that was compounded by his empty trash talking toward Lebron inspired the franchise to publicly announce they weren’t resigning him under any circumstances. Understandably. He was an embarrassment. Lost a lot of respect around the league, except in Houston, who miraculously decided to outbid only themselves and gave him an $80 million bag. As a result, I’m rooting against Houston next year.

But, back to Memphis. Brandon Clarke is likely out for the year recovering from a severe knee injury. Now, the news is Stephen Adams is having surgery on his knee too. That’s the 2nd and 3rd Bigs in their rotation. The West is going to be a slaughterhouse this year. Memphis has the talent & coaching to overcome a lot, and if they make the playoffs, watch out. But they’ll likely take a step back during the regular season.

Last Year – Interesting Stats

2nd in NBA in total rebounds, 3rd in steals, 3rd in blocksThe Griz are 33-17 without Ja Morant in the lineup over the past 2 seasonsJaren Jackson won DPOY despite only averaging 6.8 rebounds per game.

Keys to Success

JJJ staying out of foul trouble, the Marcus Smart-Desmond Bane chemistry, Steven Adams’ health

Potential Obstacles

Ja Morant’s friends, JJJ’s rebounding (or lack thereof), Marcus Smart’s shooting, Steven Adams’ health

Hot takes

Ja is on his best behavior upon his returnDesmond Bane is an all-starMarcus Smart has a miserable shooting yearSanti Aldama gets votes for 6th Man of the YearMemphis makes the playoffs and upsets the favorite in Round 1

STANDINGS PREDICTION: 8TH IN THE WEST