NBA Playoffs: 5 ways Grizzlies can upset Spurs

2) Head Coaching

Take a quick survey around the NBA asking for an opinion on the league’s best young coach, and you’re likely to see plenty of votes for Dave Joerger. That’s for a good reason.

The 42-year-old took over the head coaching position in 2013 after the Grizzlies let Lionel Hollins go after four full seasons, the last of which saw the Grizzlies advance to the Western Conference finals. Joerger previously spent six seasons as an assistant coach with the Grizzlies. In his three seasons at the helm, he’s led Memphis to the playoffs in each, with a first-round win over the Portland Trail Blazers last season as the No. 5 seed. His .598 winning percentage (147-99) is the highest among the 11 coaches the franchise has had in its history.

Joerger is under contract with the Grizzlies for next season, but there have already been rumblings that teams like the Minnesota Timberwolves will make a run at him. He would likely become one of the most sought-after coaches if he became available after next season. If the Grizzlies are wise, they will make every effort to retain Joerger.

While the future might be uncertain, the present is not. Joerger always gives the Grizzlies a chance.

Next: No. 1: History