Grizzlies Host Bulls: Desperately Seeking A Win
Tonight the Memphis Grizzlies host the Chicago Bulls. Chicago is sitting at the 9th seed in the East with only 2 games separating them from being playoff bound. Memphis is playing to keep themselves in possible playoff positioning. This game has a lot on the line for both teams.
There are only five games remaining for the Grizzlies before the season ends. Memphis is heading into those games on a six game losing streak with their spot in the playoffs evaporating before their eyes. There are only 3 games separating Memphis from the 9 seed and missing the playoffs for the first time since 2011. Tonight’s game is a must-win. There’s no other way to say it except: it’s time to grind.
The last six games have been tough to watch, there is no other way to put it. Pulling out a win tonight is going to be a challenge against a Bulls team that is hungry. Despite their desire to win and their will to play Memphis has just not been able to close out games and come up with wins. Sometimes it’s their free throw shooting, sometimes it’s turnovers, sometimes it’s three-pointers, and sometimes it’s their defense. Whatever the culprit is, whatever area the Grizzlies have been weak lately, their opponents have been strong. If the Grizzlies want a win tonight, the pieces are going to have to come together.
Some Quick Keys to the Game:
Take Advantage of Every Opportunity. It goes without saying that Memphis MUST capitalize when given the chance. Chicago does not turn the ball over frequently so when they do, Memphis needs to score. The Grizzlies must aggressively go to the boards, especially offensively, turning missed shots into scores. Memphis is going to have to play smart with the ball. They no longer have the opportunity to gamble on running down court and trying for a lay-up in traffic. Each play has to be smart and intentional. It is going to be that extra effort that makes the difference for this Memphis team.
Make Those Daggum Free-Throws. Seriously though, getting to the line doesn’t do anyone any good if Memphis can’t convert. In the last match-up the Grizzlies lost to the Bulls 98-85. In that game Memphis shot 57.1% from the free throw line. They didn’t lose that game on free-throws but they did leave points on the floor. Leaving points on the floor is not optional tonight. Memphis has been hit and miss on their free-throw percentage. Overall in the last six games Memphis has shot 67.7% from the line. They have to do better.
Defensive Energy. Memphis gets their offense from their defense. We have heard this time and time again and it remains true. Memphis must play aggressive defense, forcing the quick-paced Bulls to slow their game down. Dictating the pace of the game is going to allow Memphis to keep the upper-hand. The game is at home, in the Grindhouse, so part of that defensive energy is going to need to come from the crowd. Yesterday the news of Mike Conley’s injury most likely keeping him out for the rest of season was confirmed. That news culminated what has already been a tough couple weeks. The fans are going to have to show up and show out. There is a reason noise isn’t pumped into FedEx Forum. It’s because the Grindhouse sits in a city that loves basketball and loves their team. So fans, part of this key to game is US!
The game tips at 7:00pm and will air on Fox Sports Southeast. If you can’t make it down to the Forum still tune in. Don’t forget to wear whatever is your luckiest gear!
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