NBA Power Rankings 10-6

Oct 24, 2014; Memphis, TN, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Zach Randolph (50) handles the ball against Miami Heat forward Shawne Williams (43) during the game at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports

9.) Memphis Grizzlies (7th in the West) 

I’m buying into the Memphis Grizzlies this season and everyone should. The Grizzlies had a bit of a rough go last season with the injury bug. But now everyone is healthy and you have to like the Vince Carter addition for this offseason. I’m slightly concerned with their head coach, because even though he’s been a winner everywhere he’s gone, he seems lost at times. Last year, they were playing too conservative when they were up big against the Thunder and allowed multiple double-digit comebacks in the first round of the playoffs. As long as Marc Gasol and Zach Randolph are healthy, they are going to be able to bully teams in the post and they’ll be able to control the glass. That is going to get you wins in this league.

Question: Do they have enough offense?

I still don’t think they are gifted enough offensively to advance through this Western Conference. However, they will be a team that makes other Western Conference opponents sweat their first round matchup against them. I will guarantee you, that if you ask around, that nobody wants a piece of this Grizzlies team. Remember, if not for a Zach Randolph game 7 suspension, there is a chance that the Grizzlies beat the Thunder in the first round of last year’s playoffs.