NBA Playoffs: 5 ways Grizzlies can upset Spurs

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Feb 21, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Memphis Grizzlies forward Zach Randolph (50) and guard Vince Carter (15) combine to block Toronto Raptors center Jonas Valanciunas (17) as they watch for a rebound in the second half of the Raptors 98-85 win at Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports /

4) Defense

The Grizzlies garnered a well-earned reputation as a stout defensive team under Lionel Hollins, and that has continued under current head coach Dave Joerger.

Memphis held opponents to an average of 101.3 points per game, good for 11th best in the NBA. They also forced an average of 15.5 turnovers per game, tied for fifth most in the league. Both of those trends will have to continue against the Spurs.

San Antonio is an elite defensive team as well, but Memphis will try to assert itself physically. The Grizzlies simply don’t have the healthy bodies to engage in offensive shootouts with a team that features MVP candidate Kawhi Leonard and All-Star forward LaMarcus Aldridge. Barnes and Allen are both considered premier defenders, but they will have their hands full with the Spurs’ set of forwards.

Memphis wasn’t great at defending the 3-point line this season, allowing opponents to shoot 36.5 percent (22nd in the league). If they can keep perimeter scorers like Danny Green and Patty Mills in check, that will help. The Grizzlies would prefer to win by scoring in the mid-to-low 90s. If they can keep the Spurs under 100 points, they’ll have a chance.

Next: No. 3: Underdog role

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