NBA Power Rankings: 16. Memphis Grizzlies (8-8)
Last week: (2-1) – vs. HOU (W), vs. LAC (W), @ MIN (L)
Rank last week: 17
Offensive rating: 109.1 (10th in NBA)
Defensive rating: 112.1 (30th in NBA)
The Memphis Grizzlies were playing well until a huge loss to the Timberwolves brought them to a halt. They would be further up in the rankings if it weren’t for that blowout loss.
Ja Morant has continued to play at an All-Star level, leading the way for Memphis. He’s making an early case for an All-NBA bid when it comes down to it.
Memphis’ real issue so far this season has been a lack of defense. They are dead last in the NBA in defensive rating, yet Morant has been carrying them to a .500 record.
Having Dillon Brooks back will certainly help with that, but he’s just one guy. The Grizzlies need the whole team to start turning things up on the defensive side of the floor.
Season outlook: After upsetting the Warriors last year to earn a spot in the playoffs, the Grizzlies are looking to head back to the postseason again this year. In all likelihood, they’ll get that chance by way of the play-in spot once again.