The Blazers sit 3.0 games behind Memphis for the eighth spot in the West, a good place to be since the Grizzlies have struggled since the All-Star break. Damian Lillard will return from injury soon, and CJ McCollum continues to produce on offense. Portland is a widely unreliable team, but they could move up this list in the coming weeks.
The Kings have found some life in recent weeks. There is concern over Buddy Hield‘s future in the organization, and I’m convinced Luke Walton is an actively harmful head coach. He showed as much in L.A., and Sacramento has still taken a clear step in the wrong direction. But the Kings have speed, athleticism, and some solid pieces. It’s not too late for a late-season push to build momentum for next year.
The Grizzlies are young and fun. Ja Morant will win Rookie of the Year (at least, he should…), Jaren Jackson Jr. is a star in the making, and the supporting cast is flushed with smart, hard-working players. Memphis’ contention is one of the season’s best storylines.
The issue is simple. The odds of Memphis keeping the eighth spot are starting to trickle down. Portland is hot in pursuit, the Pelicans are changing gears, and even San Antonio is within striking distance. Memphis needs to get back on track soon, or else.