Rockets Gives Grizz Another Problem in OT

Grizzlies drop their 4th straight as they lose to the Rockets in OT, 117-111. Grizzlies (21-8) are now 2nd in the Southwest division. With the win, the Rockets (21-7) moved to first place in the Southwest division. Grizzlies shot 41.3% from the field and 29.2% from the 3 point line. The Rockets shot 45.1% from the field and shot 41.2% from 3; they had a total of 14 three pointers out of 34 attempts. The Grizzlies connected on 7 three pointers out of 24 attempts.

Causes for concern

1) Rebounding

2) Lack of defending the 3

3) Taking too many jump shots

4) Courtney has to take more than 6 shots in a game.

5) Spacing is bad.

6) Why did Tayshaun Prince take 12 shots?

Analysis

Grizzlies have been out rebounded in most of the losses since Zbo has been out. The guys have been taking too many jump shots and have neglected the painted area many times. In the 3rd quarter in last night’s game, they only connected one bucket in the paint. The Grizzlies are not a jump shooting team and the paint has largely been neglected in some cases due to the absence of Zbo. The guys need to get back to Grizzlies basketball.The help defense is not working. Grizzlies are being killed from the 3 point line. Teams know that Grizzlies just don’t defend well at the perimeter at times even with Tony Allen on the floor. Rockets connected on 14 three point shots.

When Marc Gasol is on the floor, the offense should ALWAYS run through him. Marc only took one shot in the overtime period. Tony Allen should never take more shots than Marc Gasol under any circumstances unless Marc isn’t available for a game. Coach Joerger left the bench unit in too long in the 4th quarter. We saw too many missed jump shots. Shot selection was at it very best.

Hopefully, the Grizzlies will get back to Grizzlies basketball tonight against the Miami Heat. Five straight losses will be a killer and will cause fans to lose confidence in the team. The game in Miami will be a must win. Memphis still believe, we just need the guys to believe in themselves!