NBA: Separating Championship Contenders From Pretenders

Memphis Grizzlies 13-2
ORating 108.8 (8th), DRating 100.7 (4th), Point Differential +7.5 (5th) SOS 20th, Title Odds +2100

We can feel more confident about the Memphis Grizzlies start than some of the other early season, small sample size, surprise teams. Since Marc Gasol returned from injury on January 14th, the Memphis Grizzlies have compiled an NBA best record of 45-15. That .750 mark might be slightly misleading as the Grizzlies point differential ranks only seventh over that period, however that mark is good enough to slot Memphis firmly into the contender group, particularly this year where they rank fifth.

The Grizzlies defense, traditionally it’s strong suit remains in place, ranking fourth, however it’s the offense where we see a step change, ranking eighth just a season after ranking 18th. The Grizzlies still pound the ball inside, their average shot distance 11’4″ trails only the Sacramento Kings, however their current three-point attempts, where they are sixth in 3PFG%, free throw attempts and True Shooting percentage through 15 games are all at their highest levels during the “Grit, Grind” era.

The statistics say being top ten in offense, defense and point differential stamps your passport as a genuine NBA title contender. The unfashionable Grizzlies finally have the password to get into the cool kids title club, don’t be surprised if they are the hit of the party once they get there.

Status – Contender

Next: Toronto Raptors