Timberwolves’ ranking in the Western Conference – Part Two
By Will Long
Oct 18, 2015; Memphis, TN, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Courtney Lee (5) handles the ball against Minnesota Timberwolves forward Andrew Wiggins (22) during the game at FedExForum. Memphis Grizzlies beat Minnesota Timberwolves 90-68. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports
6. Memphis Grizzlies
The Memphis Grizzlies were the second seed in the Western Conference for much of last season until an untimely meltdown towards the end of last season that sent them down to the fifth spot.
If we know one thing about the Grizz, it’s that they’re probably the most physical team in the league. Zach Randolph is a bully on the low block, and Tony Allen made sure it was known that he is a First Team All-Defense player. Mike Conley is a great two-way point guard, and the addition of Matt Barnes and his attitude add another level of grit to the team.
One thing the team lacks greatly is outside shooting. The best shooters on the team actually have decent percentages, but as a whole, the team doesn’t attempt many nor make many. The absence of three-point shooters allows defenses to collapse on Randolph and Gasol while on the block, which could hinder their production down there.
There isn’t really much else to be said about this team. Everyone knows they’ll grind their opponent down until there’s nothing left of that team at all.
Everyone knows they lack outside shooting but have an efficient enough offense to make up for it. Everyone knows that their defense is one of if the not the top defense in the NBA. But, everyone also knows that this team isn’t quite elite.
Check back on Thursday for Part Three of the Western Conference Rankings. The Timberwolves can be found in Part One.