As the 2023-24 NBA season approaches, the Memphis Grizzlies are gearing up to make their mark. With a mix of seasoned veterans and promising young talent, can they overcome the challenges that lie ahead and exceed expectations? Below, we’ll look into the Grizzlies playoff chances, season-long props, and preview what to look out for this year.
Grizzlies Playoff Chances
Heading into the 2023-24 season, the Grizzlies playoff chances are 71% according to the odds at DraftKings Sportsbook.
- Odds to make playoffs: -250
- Percent to make playoffs: 71%
Grizzlies Season-Long Props & Futures
- NBA Champion: +3000
- Conference Winner: +1300
- Division Winner: +140
- Regular season wins: 45.5
Review of the Previous Season
The 2022-23 NBA season was a rollercoaster ride for the Memphis Grizzlies. Despite facing numerous challenges, the team managed to secure the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference with a commendable 51-31 record. This marked a significant improvement from their 2021-22 season, where they finished with a 56-26 record.
The Grizzlies’ performance last season was largely driven by their star player, Ja Morant. Despite missing 21 games due to injury, Morant’s contributions were instrumental in the team’s success. He averaged 26.2 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 8.1 assists per game, showcasing his prowess as a scorer and playmaker. His dynamic playing style and high-flying athleticism made him a nightmare for opposing defenses and a delight for Grizzlies fans.
However, the Grizzlies’ season was not without its challenges. The team faced significant adversity in the form of injuries to key players. Brandon Clarke, a high-energy forward, was sidelined for the latter part of the season due to a torn Achilles. Steven Adams, the team’s starting center, also missed significant time due to a strained posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) in his right knee.
Despite these setbacks, the Grizzlies demonstrated resilience and a next-man-up mentality. Players like Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr. stepped up in the absence of their teammates, contributing significantly to the team’s success. Bane, in particular, had a breakout season, averaging 21.5 points per game and leading the team in scoring in several games.
However, the Grizzlies’ season came to an abrupt end in the first round of the playoffs, where they were eliminated by the seventh-seeded Los Angeles Lakers. This marked the second time in three seasons that the Grizzlies were ousted in the first round, highlighting the team’s struggle to translate regular-season success into postseason triumphs.
Offseason Changes and Their Impact
The Memphis Grizzlies made some significant moves during the offseason, which are expected to have a considerable impact on their performance in the upcoming season. The most notable changes include the acquisition of Marcus Smart and Derrick Rose, and the departure of Dillon Brooks and Tyus Jones.
Marcus Smart, a former Kia Defensive Player of the Year, brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the Grizzlies. Known for his tenacious defense and playmaking abilities, Smart is expected to fill the void left by Morant during his suspension. His addition to the team not only strengthens the Grizzlies’ defense but also provides them with a seasoned leader who can guide the young roster.
Derrick Rose, although past his prime, is another valuable addition to the team. The former MVP still has the potential to make significant contributions, especially in Morant’s absence. His experience and scoring ability could prove crucial in helping the Grizzlies navigate the early part of the season without their star player.
However, the Grizzlies also lost some key players during the offseason. Dillon Brooks, a defensive stalwart, left the team in free agency. His departure could potentially weaken the Grizzlies’ defense, which was one of their strengths last season. Tyus Jones, another valuable player, was also traded, leaving a gap in the Grizzlies’ backcourt.
Despite these losses, the Grizzlies have shown resilience in the face of adversity before. The additions of Smart and Rose, coupled with the potential growth of their young players, could help them overcome these challenges and continue their upward trajectory.
However, it’s important to note that these changes also come with risks. Smart and Rose, while experienced, are not without their limitations. Smart’s offensive game, in particular, has been inconsistent, and Rose’s injury history could be a concern. Furthermore, the loss of Brooks and Jones could put additional pressure on the Grizzlies’ young players to step up.
Key Players for the Upcoming Season
As the Memphis Grizzlies gear up for the 2023-24 NBA season, several key players are expected to play pivotal roles in the team’s success. These players, with their unique skills and contributions, will be instrumental in shaping the Grizzlies’ performance in the upcoming games.
Ja Morant, the team’s star player, will undoubtedly be a significant factor once he returns from his suspension. Despite missing a chunk of the previous season due to injury, Morant’s contributions were instrumental in the Grizzlies’ success. He averaged 26.2 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 8.1 assists per game, showcasing his prowess as a scorer and playmaker. His dynamic playing style and high-flying athleticism make him a nightmare for opposing defenses and a delight for Grizzlies fans. His return will undoubtedly boost the team’s performance and morale.
Marcus Smart, one of the Grizzlies’ new acquisitions, is another player to watch out for. Known for his tenacious defense and playmaking abilities, Smart brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the team. His addition to the team not only strengthens the Grizzlies’ defense but also provides them with a seasoned leader who can guide the young roster.
Derrick Rose, although past his prime, is another valuable addition to the team. The former MVP still has the potential to make significant contributions, especially in Morant’s absence. His experience and scoring ability could prove crucial in helping the Grizzlies navigate the early part of the season without their star player.
Jaren Jackson Jr., another key player for the Grizzlies, will be crucial in the team’s defensive efforts. Last season, Jackson Jr. won the Kia Defensive Player of the Year honors, showcasing his defensive prowess. His ability to protect the rim and disrupt opposing offenses will be vital for the Grizzlies.
Desmond Bane, who had a breakout season last year, is another player to keep an eye on. Bane, who averaged 21.5 points per game and led the team in scoring in several games, will be expected to step up and contribute significantly, especially in Morant’s absence.
Season Predictions
As we look ahead to the 2023-24 NBA season, the Memphis Grizzlies are poised to make a significant impact. Despite the challenges they face, including the 25-game suspension of their star player Ja Morant and the loss of key players like Dillon Brooks and Tyus Jones, the Grizzlies have shown resilience and a knack for overcoming adversity.
The addition of seasoned veterans Marcus Smart and Derrick Rose could potentially elevate the team’s performance. Smart, a former Kia Defensive Player of the Year, brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the team. His defensive prowess and playmaking abilities will be crucial in the absence of Morant. Rose, although past his prime, still has the potential to make significant contributions. His experience and scoring ability could prove crucial in helping the Grizzlies navigate the early part of the season without Morant.
The Grizzlies also have a strong supporting cast, including Jaren Jackson Jr., who won the Kia Defensive Player of the Year honors last season, and Desmond Bane, who had a breakout season last year. These players, along with the rest of the roster, will need to step up and contribute significantly to the team’s success.
In terms of specific predictions, it’s reasonable to expect the Grizzlies to secure a playoff spot, even with the challenges they face. They have a strong roster and a proven track record of success. However, advancing beyond the first round of the playoffs will be a significant challenge, especially given the strength of the Western Conference.
Overall, the 2023-24 NBA season promises to be an exciting one for the Memphis Grizzlies. Despite the challenges they face, they have the talent and the resilience to make a significant impact. It will be interesting to see how they navigate these challenges and how far they can go in the upcoming season.
