National Basketball Association

QUICK HITS: Memphis Grizzlies 102, Minnesota Timberwolves 98

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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Oct 26, 2016; Memphis, TN, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Mike Conley (11) and Memphis Grizzlies head coach David Fizdale during the second half against the Minnesota Timberwolves at FedExForum. Memphis Grizzlies defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 102-98. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports

The Memphis Grizzlies and Minnesota Timberwolves battled until the very end. How do the Memphis Grizzlies look like going forward?

After falling behind as many as 17 early in the first quarter, the Memphis Grizzlies rallied back and won 102-98. While many have deemed “grit and grind” dead, the Grizzlies showed their old school elements blended with three-point shooting. More importantly, Dave Fizdale recored his first win as a NBA head coach.

Memphis Grizzlies’ strength: Offensive flow

Compared to offensive sets of the past, the Memphis Grizzlies truly put a show on the offensive side of the court. There was fluid movement on the court, a perfect amount of spacing and more open three-pointers.

Their offense was able to run like a well-oiled machine thanks to star players Marc Gasol, Mike Conley and Zach Randolph. The trio combined for 61 of their 102 points. Neither Gasol nor Conley showed any injury rust. Randolph was able to feast on Cole Aldrich in the post.

One underlying aspect of the Memphis Grizzlies’ offense was their role players. James Ennis showcased his athleticism with some highlight-reel plays. In addition, he knocked down 2 triples. Wade Baldwin stuffed the stat sheet with 7 points, 6 assists, 5 rebounds, 3 blocks and 3 steals. The most important part of the game was his ball security (zero turnovers). Had he made some rookie turnovers, the game might’ve swung in another direction. JaMychal Green’s insertion into the starting lineup went off to a great start. Despite his above-average stat-line (12 points and 7 rebounds), he made a huge difference in the offense. His ability to shoot from mid-range and deep stretched the court. Furthermore, he made a clutch tip-in off a missed free throw.

While the Memphis Grizzlies’ stars came to play tonight, if it weren’t for their role players, the game could’ve had a different result.

Memphis Grizzlies’ weakness: reluctancy to shoot lay-ups

While the Grizzlies’ offense operated smoothly, they lacked complete aggression at the basket. There were instances where a player would drive and make a wild pass out to the perimeter.

Whether it was Mike Conley, Andrew Harrison or Wade Baldwin, there could’ve been better results from attacking the rim at full force. There could’ve been more whistles the Grizzlies’ way. Mike Conley might’ve scored 30 points instead of 24. Andrew Harrison could’ve found his rhythm by getting some free-throw opportunities.

Because of the advancement of NBA basketball, many teams are looking to shoot more threes. On the other hand, a uncontested free throw is better than a risky pass that leads to a lower percentage shot.

On the other side

Oct 26, 2016; Memphis, TN, USA; Memphis Grizzlies center Marc Gasol (33) handles the ball against Minnesota Timberwolves forward Karl-Anthony Towns (32) during the second half at FedExForum. Memphis Grizzlies defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 102-98. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports

The Minnesota Timberwolves will be scary good.

Karl-Anthony Towns possesses a combination of Kevin Garnett’s tenacity and shooting touch, Tim Duncan’s low post IQ and a 6’11” linebacker’s build.

Andrew Wiggins has a lightning-quick first step, uber athleticism and a knack for scoring the basketball.

Zach LaVine has the potential to be a Jamal Crawford-like spark in this league.

Kris Dunn displayed his John Wall-level athleticism.

Ricky Rubio is one of the most underrated defenders in basketball, possessing the ability to hound opposing point guards and attack big men with a double team.

Despite all these things, they proved one thing: their youth.

After jumping out to a dominate 16-1 lead, it looked to be a long night for Grizzlies fans. However, the Timberwolves coughed up the lead and lost the game.

After seeing a Rubio-Lavine-Wiggins-Towns-Dieng lineup, I couldn’t get over the defensive potential of this team. They’re quick, long and agile. Thibs could easily implement a switch-heavy defense and harass defenders.

While they’re looking for a playoff spot this year, they need to decide what pieces from their weak bench will compliment their young core the best.

The Minnesota Timberwolves will flash glimpses of future domination and growing pains. Their transformation from budding team to playoff team to title-contenders will be a fun process for the entire NBA.

Quotable

Closing remarks

Tonight was a treat for the Memphis Grizzlies’ fans. They were able to see an exciting, back-and-forth game that came down to the wire. There should surely be optimism for improvement once Chandler Parsons and Tony Allen return to the lineup from injury. Let’s hope the Memphis Grizzlies can take their momentum from tonight to New York, as they face the Knicks on Friday.

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