2009-10 Memphis Grizzlies Predictions
Written October 26, 2009 by Jack Jones
The Memphis Grizzlies have had three horrible years in a row, but with the experience that rookies OJ Mayo, Marc Gasol and Darrell Arthur were able to get a year ago, this team could make a little bit of a jump in 2009-10. The NBA odds makers don’t necessarily think they will be great as the team is slotted for 27.5 total wins, but that is an increase over the 24 from a season ago. The odds on Memphis winning the West currently sit at 100-to-1 right now, with the odds to win the NBA Finals at 200-to-1. If you are looking for a great place for NBA betting this season, take a look at the $500 in FREE signup bonus money available at BetUS!
Backcourt
Even with the addition of Allen Iverson, Mike Conley should still be in line to be the starting point guard. Conley excelled when Lionel Hollins replaced Marc Iavaroni as the team’s coach and ended the season with 10.9 points, 4.3 assists, and 3.4 rebounds per game. OJ Mayo proved in his rookie campaign that he has what it takes to be a star in this league. He was second in Rookie of the Year voting behind Derrick Rose, but at the start of the season he was a monster before wearing down. Still, he ended up with a 18.5 ppg mark. Marko Jaric is a dependable three point threat, and Iverson might be getting older, but he isn’t so far removed from his prime that he won’t contribute decent numbers off the bench.
Frontcourt
Rudy Gay should benefit from the addition of Zach Randolph. Now he can not only play more small forward, but also won’t have to worry about being the team’s sole frontcourt scoring option. Randolph might have off the court issues, but it’s tough not to like this team adding a guy who scored 20.8 points and brought down 10.1 rebounds per game last year. At center Marc Gasol proved he has a completely different style of play from his brother Pau, as Marc is more physical in the paint. Lucking out with the No. 2 overall pick in the draft gifted Memphis with Hasheem Thabeet, who might not be ready offensively, but his defensive ability to protect the rim is a huge asset for this team. Both DeMarre Carroll and Sam Young were highly regard draft choices for this team as well, and will see quite a few minutes off of the bench.
Summary
I think the Grizzlies are going in the right direction, and while my NBA predictions show them at the bottom of their division, they do have enough solid players that the future looks bright. Mayo is an All-Star, Conley is a better than average point, Gay is a quality swingman, and Randolph has posted big numbers throughout his career in the paint. This team will knock some people off, but the playoffs are an unlikely ending to the season. If you want expert NBA picks that will help you beat the spreads this year, sign up with our handicappers.
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