Grizzlies Face Critical Test Against Spurs

While the Memphis Grizzlies got the season off to a decent start, splitting their first six games, they now find themselves in the midst of a slump that can mostly be attributed to their youth.  As the youngest team in the NBA, the Grizzlies are making their share of mistakes, but more importantly, they are learning from them.  At least, that is what should come out of the disappointing outcomes of the last few games.

Tonight, they have another chance to practice new knowledge as they host the San Antonio Spurs.  The Spurs have long been near the top of the Western Conference, but are currently without their star guards Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker.  The Grizzlies will still have to deal with Tim Duncan in the post, but even he has looked human this season, seemingly a step slower than in the past and clearly not the dominant center he has been over the last five-plus seasons.

Even so, Duncan will be a handful for Marc Gasol and whoever ends up helping him out on the defensive end.  Gasol needs to continue his solid defensive performance and must challenge Duncan on the boards, perhaps even matching his rebound total.  The Spurs have a physical front line alongside Duncan, with Bruce Bowen and Fabricio Oberto providing mostly defensive support.  The Grizzlies will have to be smart enough to stay out of foul trouble while somehow limiting the damage those guys can do.

The Grizzlies will need to take advantage of transition opportunities and avoid the Spurs' physical halfcourt defense.  They will need major contributions from Mike Conley and Rudy Gay, who will both need to handle the ball responsibly and limit costly mistakes that the Spurs can use against them.  As many players as possible will be counted on to provide points or big plays, especially if the starters get into foul trouble.

The Grizzlies cannot afford to panic if they fall behind early, and they must open the third quarter well.  They can't give the Spurs any opportunities to open a significant lead.

If the Grizzlies can score in transition, limit their mistakes, compete for rebounds and play solid defense, they will have a chance to come away with what would be a major confidence booster.