The NBA‘s Western Conference looks as strong as ever on paper. Entering the 2024-25 season, it will be a bloodbath out West, with multiple good teams likely to miss the postseason altogether.
There aren’t too many bad teams, and most are expected to take another step toward contention. One team in particular is ready to prove last year was a fluke.
That would be the Memphis Grizzlies, who suffered multiple key injuries last season. It led them down a path of finishing toward the bottom of the conference despite being one of the better teams in the NBA over the last few seasons.
Memphis will enter this season ready to prove it belongs in the elite category of the NBA. The Grizzlies have one of the better young cores in the league, with point guard Ja Morant, guard Desmond Bane, and forward Jaren Jackson Jr. running the show.
The key will be experience and chemistry on the court, for which keeping the core group together is important. Jackson Jr. is coming up on the final two years of his current deal.
Jackson recently posted on his Twitter/X account to express his love for Memphis. Morant made his feelings known about the big man sticking around the team with a concise sentiment: “better not go nowhere either”
Morant proclaiming this publicly shows the type of chemistry the players have. It makes for a great locker room and could help them continue growing into title contenders.
For Memphis to contend, they will need every one of those three players together. Morant is the head of the snake for this team, and has proved that he is one of the more exciting players in the entire league.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 05: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies dribbles during a 127-113 Grizzlies win at Crypto.com Arena on January 05, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. Morant made his feelings known about his co-star’s upcoming contract options.
Photo by Harry How/Getty Images
His athleticism allows him to do some unreal things while on the court and his leadership has helped Memphis grow stronger. He will return after undergoing season-ending right shoulder surgery.
With Morant back on the floor, Memphis can get back to dominating. Two seasons ago, Memphis finished as the No. 2 seed in the West so they have shown that they can be one of the better squads in the NBA.
This season will be a big test for Memphis, as they don’t want to be left in the dust. Teams are evolving around the league so for the Grizzlies, making sure to remind everyone of who they are will be important.
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