Memphis Grizzlies
2017-18 record: 22-60
2017-18 season series: 1-1
2018-19 advantage: Sixers
The Grizzlies will be more competitive this season. Mike Conley is back, Kyle Anderson is a solid addition, and the goal will be to win games, not tank. Even then, it’s tough to predict a playoff appearance for the Grit n’ Grind.
There isn’t much room in the Western Conference playoff picture. Marc Gasol is an effective interior defender and floor-spacing big, but he didn’t look great last season. He’s on the brink of a steep decline.
Jaren Jackson Jr. will be an excellent rookie, but he’s not enough to move the needle in such a talent-laden conference. J.B. Bickerstaff isn’t exactly known as an elite coach either. The odds are stacked against Memphis.
The Sixers have the advantage at every position, on both ends. There isn’t much of a contest here, regardless of whether or not Conley returns to form after missing most of last season with injury.