New Orleans Pelicans: The Southwest is a divisional nightmare

3. Memphis Grizzlies

2016-17 season series: Memphis Grizzlies (2 wins) – New Orleans Pelicans (2 wins)

Last season, the Pelicans had an even season series with the Memphis Grizzlies. The first two games went to overtime and were won by the Grizzlies. The Pelicans did win the last two games of the series, but the consistent theme of this matchup was how badly Davis performed.

Against the Grizzlies, Davis averaged 18.8 points, 10.8 rebounds and 1.0 assists per game. They also held him to 39.7 percent shooting from the field. It was clear why Davis performed poorly against the Grizzlies. He was constantly double-teamed, always settled for jumpers instead of attacking the basket and never got his teammates involved.

DeMarcus Cousins getting traded was the game -hanger that titled the power shift of these two franchises.

In their final game against the Grizzlies, Boogie dropped 41 points, 16 rebounds, two assists, two steals and two blocks. Cousins was the major key in that game in helping relieve the defensive pressure that Davis was attracting.

With the loss of Zack Randolph and JaMychal Green, it’s hard to envision the Grizzlies having enough bigs to guard the best frontcourt in the league this upcoming season.

Marc Gasol will have his hands full trying to defend the paint against both Cousins and Davis. The key for the Pelicans is to crash the offensive glass and win the 50-50 balls. It will definitely secure them at least three wins in this specific series.

It’s safe to assume that the Pelicans could be the third best team in the Southwest Division, if they handle their business with the Memphis Grizzlies.

Prediction: The New Orleans Pelicans win three games against the Memphis Grizzlies.