Let’s have fun with this preview and take a quick trip down memory lane. It’s NBA Summer League, after all.
For my money, peak Grit ‘N’ Grind vs. Lob City was the best NBA rivalry going. Two polar opposite teams led by contrasting stars. Two fan bases from remarkably different backgrounds. I can even picture a particular LA Clippers’ parody sign in a Gus’s Fried Chicken that perfectly encapsulates how every Memphian felt about the Lakers’ little brother.
The memory of Tony Allen kicking Chris Paul follows. Then, the agony of the Nick Young game pierces my brain before the ferocity of Z-Bo doing push-ups after a hard fall and seemingly mocking the fragility of Clippers players gives me strength.
What a time in Grizz history!
Wednesday’s Summer League matchup likely won’t come to the minds of Grizz fans when looking back on iconic matchups. But who knows? That’s why the game is played.
When: Wednesday, July 12, 12:30 PM Central
Where: Cox Pavilion, Las Vegas, Nevada
How to Watch/Stream: NBA TV, ESPN+
What To Watch For
Let’s see what these cubs are made of
Memphis got punched in the mouth last game suffering a 77-100 defeat at the hands of the Cleveland Cavaliers. Sam Merrill had his revenge game. Emoni Bates exorcised some demons that previously lingered in Bluff City. But life isn’t about how many times you get knocked down. It’s about always getting up.
I’m looking for efficiency and energy versus the Clippers; Memphis was 25-73 from the floor and 12-43 from triple. I’ll be the first to admit my deficiencies as a basketball analyst, but I guarantee no team will win a basketball game shooting that poorly. Smart shot selection and decision-making will be the difference for this young squad.
Attack the rim
“Let that thang fly” must be the Memphis Grizzlies’ Summer League motto. Players have the greenest of green lights from deep, and it paid off early on in Summer League. But as of late, they’ve cooled off. I’m all for trying a different approach.
Memphis has the personnel to attack the rim and punish people down low. Roddy was more aggressive last game putting his head down and using his size and strength to finish. We already know Kenneth Lofton Jr’s capabilities. GG Jackson has the tools to get downhill, as well.
Though Jake LaRavia doesn’t profile the same, I’m looking for more patience, better shot selection, and use of his body when going downhill. He has the touch to be effective with a floater or mid-range jumper. We’ll see if Memphis keeps firing threes from the Vegas strip or if they attack the rim like I attack a pool in the scorching heat.