3 realistic goals for Memphis Grizzlies in 2021 NBA Playoffs

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - MAY 06: Jaren Jackson Jr. #13 of the Memphis Grizzlies reacts against the Detroit Pistons after the game at Little Caesars Arena on May 06, 2021 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images) /

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2. Give the young core meaningful playoff experience

The worst possible outcome would be losing the play-in game to the Spurs and ending a promising season on such a sour note. That would not allow for very much development.

That’s why this second goal is gaining some meaningful experience. First up is beating the Spurs. That alone would provide a huge boost to players like Morant, Jackson, Brooks, Brandon Clarke and De’Anthony Melton, who would be making their playoff debuts.

A do-or-die game against the Lakers or Warriors would provide rare experience for a young team. The fact it would not come in a seven-game series means the other side would not have had two weeks to figure out all of Memphis’ weaknesses.

We already know the offense is going to flow through Morant, as it should. He has helped his team reach this point, and it is time to take that next step.

The Grizzlies are banking on the current young core of talent being here for a long time. This is a franchise that has never been to the NBA Finals and that has also not won a playoff series since 2015.

Achieving the goal of facing a potential Finals contender in a do-or-die play-in game would provide that necessary experience moving forward. Winning the game would be a bonus.

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