Last season was one to forget for the Memphis Grizzlies and they’ve done a good job of putting those memories behind so far in this new campaign. With a 22-10 record, they currently sit second in the Western Conference.

Ja Morant has led the way for the Grizzlies with averages of 21.2 points, 4.4 rebounds and 7.9 assists per game while Jaren Jackson Jr. has been a great running mate, putting up 21.9 points, 6.0 rebounds and 1.7 blocks per contest.

Morant has slowly regained his All-Star form after missing most of last year due to his suspension for conduct detrimental to the league and the shoulder injury that he suffered a few weeks into his return. The two-time NBA All-Star is still only 25 years old which should make it easy for him to move forward from his prolonged absence last season.

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Meanwhile, Jackson has clearly enjoyed his return to power forward this season. Last year, he was pressed into a full-time move to center, filling the void left by Brandon Clarke, who managed just six appearances due to a torn Achilles. Now, with Clarke back onboard and the arrival of 7’4 rookie Zach Edey, Jackson has shifted back to his natural position and is thriving, highlighted by career-high field goal shooting and steals numbers.

The third member of Memphis’ purported ‘Big Three’, Desmond Bane, has recently returned to form as well following a toe injury that shelved him for several games. Bane initially struggled when he came back, but has picked up the pace.

What makes this Memphis team a true threat to win the title this year though is its depth. Beyond their three best players, the rest of this roster is filled with more than able players. Their two rookies, Edey and Jaylen Wells, look like two of the best among this year’s freshman class.

Reserves Marcus Smart and Santi Aldama have played well off the bench too as it appears that they are growing more and more comfortable in their role with each passing day. Scotty Pippen Jr., Jay Huff, and Jake LaRavia have all had their moments as well and even the Grizzlies who are not seeing as much playing time this year, such as John Konchar, Luke Kennard, and Vince Williams Jr., all have a proven track record of contributing when called upon. 

The Western Conference looks wide open this year and this could be the season that this franchise finally makes its first ever NBA Finals appearance. There is still a long way to go in the season though, but for as long as Morant can practice prudence with what he posts online and Jackson can stay healthy, this Memphis team should be one to reckon with. The time is now for the Grizzlies and the only question that remains is whether or not they can capitalize on this opportunity.

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