2022 NBA Playoffs: 5 biggest x-factors for the Western Conference

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MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE – MARCH 28: Dillon Brooks #24 of the Memphis Grizzlies reacts during the game against the Golden State Warriors at FedExForum on March 28, 2022 in Memphis, Tennessee. 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 Justin Ford/Getty Images) /

2. Dillon Brooks

Injuries limited Brooks to just 32 regular-season appearances for the Grizzlies but he’s healthy heading into the playoffs. That means Memphis fans need to buckle up for watching one of the most exciting and frustrating players in the league during their postseason campaign.

Brooks only shooting just over 30% from three during his regular-season play is an issue for Memphis’ offensive spacing. Ja Morant draws a crowd with the ball in his hands which means guys like Brooks are going to be wide open for shots on the perimeter. He needs to knock those down at a solid clip if Memphis is going to make a lengthy playoff run.

Brooks also needs to curb his desire to make plays off the dribble. That’s helpful during the regular season to take stress off of Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr, but it’s not an efficient strategy in the playoffs. Catch-and-shoot should be Brooks’ offensive motto during the postseason.

The 26-year-old off guard has his best chance to be a positive x-factor by using his dogged defensive determination to frustrate opposing stars over the course of lengthy series. Brooks is a defensive pest in every sense of the word. That could be the difference between an early exit and and a Finals berth for the upstart Grizzlies.

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