Dallas Mavericks: How the Southwest Division will soon be the best in NBA

New Look Grizzlies

In about one season the Memphis Grizzlies were able to go from the “Grit and Grind Grizzlies” to something more graceful and refined. The Grizzlies led by rookies Ja Morant, Brandon Clarke, and second year player Jaren Jackson Jr. Look poised to be a problem in the Western Conference in the future.

Rookie of the Year front-runner Ja Morant has shown the skill and poise of a veteran in his first season with the Grizzlies. Ja is averaging 17.6 points per game, with an effective shooting percentage of 52%. This is extremely impressive for a rookie point guard. Ja is never in a rush on offense, and he seems to always make the right decision. Morant has freakish athleticism but his ability to play at his own pace and his decision-making makes him special.

The Grizzlies are currently in eighth place with a record of 30-31. Memphis is three games ahead of the ninth place Portland Trailblazers and four games ahead of the New Orleans Pelicans. Memphis is still very much alive in the playoff race, and recently acquired Justise Winslow, and Dion Waiters. However with losing Jaren Jackson Jr. to a quad injury, and having the toughest remaining schedule in the league the Grizzlies could potentially add another lottery pick to their already talented roster in the upcoming draft.