Opinion
4 min read

Can the Memphis Grizzlies Outmaneuver the San Antonio Spurs at FedExForum?

As the Memphis Grizzlies prepare to host the San Antonio Spurs at FedExForum, fans are eager to see if their team can bounce back from a string of challenging games. The upcoming matchup on January 2nd is more than just another game; it's an opportunity for redemption.


CHARLOTTE, NC - JANUARY 4: Santi Aldama #7 of the Memphis Grizzlies shoots the ball during the game against the Charlotte Hornets on January 4, 2023 at Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Kent Smith/NBAE via Getty Images)

The Grizzlies' recent performance has been less than stellar, with a disappointing loss against Sacramento Kings on January 1st, where they were outscored 123-92. The Kings dominated throughout, leading for nearly 40 minutes and boasting an impressive efficiency game score of 100.7 compared to the Grizzlies' 59.1. With only one block and a mere four steals in that game, MEM's defense struggled significantly.


However, despite these setbacks, there is reason for optimism among Grizzlies supporters. In their last three games, including against formidable opponents like the Los Angeles Clippers and Denver Nuggets, MEM showed flashes of brilliance that could be harnessed to overcome SAS.


Against LAC on December 30th, while ultimately falling short with a score of 117-106 in favor of LA Clippers, MEM demonstrated resilience by maintaining a close lead change count and tying three times during play. Their bench contributed significantly with 23 points and they managed to convert turnovers into an impressive tally of 24 points.


Even more encouraging was their performance against DEN on December 29th when they scored over half their field goals inside the paint (46 points) and saw substantial contributions from their bench players who added another solid chunk of points (44). Despite losing with a wide margin (142-105), this shows that when given opportunities near the basket or through turnovers forced by aggressive defense – areas where SAS has shown vulnerability – MEM can capitalize effectively.


The key for Memphis will be consistency in execution on both ends of the court. They'll need to leverage their fast-break opportunities better than they did against SAC where they only scored seven fast-break points at a rate of just forty percent effectiveness.


Looking ahead to facing SAS at home provides additional hope; playing in front of their fans could give them that extra push needed for victory. It will be crucial for players like Ja Morant or Jaren Jackson Jr., should he play after his injury recovery period earlier this season – both known for explosive plays – to step up and ignite energy within both team members as well as spectators alike.


As we approach tip-off time set at seven o'clock PM Central Time Zone at FedExForum in Memphis Tennessee - it's clear that while challenges lie ahead based upon past performances - there remains ample opportunity for triumph if lessons have been learned from previous defeats.


Fans eager not just witness but also support their beloved team can tune into BSSE channel number six hundred forty-nine or BSSW channel six hundred seventy-six depending upon locale viewing preferences come game day evening next Tuesday night!

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