Opinion
3 min read

Can the Memphis Grizzlies Upset the Celtics at TD Garden?

As the Memphis Grizzlies prepare to face off against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden, fans are undoubtedly analyzing their team's recent performances for a hint of what might come. The upcoming game on February 4th is poised to be a clash of titans, but can the Grizzlies truly upset one of the Eastern Conference's powerhouses?


MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - NOVEMBER 19: Desmond Bane #22 of the Memphis Grizzlies loses control of the ball during the second half against Kristaps Porzingis #8 of the Boston Celtics at FedExForum on November 19, 2023 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)

The Grizzlies' recent victory over Atlanta Hawks on December 24th showcased their offensive prowess, with an impressive 125 points scored and a solid shooting performance that saw them hitting 52 percent from the field and an exceptional 90 percent on fast breaks. Their ability to draw fouls and capitalize with a free throw percentage of 64 may also be crucial in their upcoming game.


However, it wasn't just offense where MEM shined; they demonstrated defensive resilience as well. With seven blocks and six steals against ATL, they proved capable of disrupting their opponents' flow. This defensive tenacity will need to be at its peak when facing BOS's multifaceted attack.


MEMPHIS, TN - NOVEMBER 19: Derrick White #9 of the Boston Celtics drives to the basket during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on November 19, 2023 at FedExForum 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)

In contrast, during their home game against Indiana Pacers on December 22nd, MEM showed that they could maintain control throughout most of the match with a time leading stat of over 43 minutes. Their bench depth was evident as well – contributing an impressive 40 points – which could be vital in keeping up with BOS’s own deep roster.


Yet not all signs point towards optimism for MEM fans. In another away game against New Orleans Pelicans on December 20th, despite pulling through with a win by scoring 115 points and leading for almost seven minutes only, there were concerns particularly in ball handling where they turned over possession eighteen times.


MEMPHIS, TN - NOVEMBER 19: Jaren Jackson Jr. #13 of the Memphis Grizzlies blocks a shot against the Boston Celtics on November 19, 2023 at FedExForum 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)

What does this mean for their encounter with BOS? The Celtics are known for their disciplined play and if MEM wants any chance at victory within TD Garden's intimidating atmosphere, minimizing turnovers will be essential alongside maintaining high shooting percentages both from inside paint (67 percent) and beyond arc (33 percent).


MEM must also leverage its ability to score in transition while ensuring that its defense can contain BOS’s shooters who have been known to catch fire quickly especially when playing at home.


Grizzlies fans should mark their calendars for February 4th at 6:00 PM ET when these two teams lock horns. It promises to be an exciting matchup filled with strategic plays and athletic prowess. For those unable to attend in person at TD Garden in Boston MA zip code:02114 USA State MA City Boston Country USA , you can catch all action live via ESPN channel number:206 or follow along locally through NBCS-BOS channel number:630 or BSSE channel number:649 depending upon your location.

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