1) Crypto brought it in game 3, we’ll need that and more to push us to a commanding 3-1 lead and keep home court.
2) R & R need to continue elevating their respective games. Hachimura has been exactly what we need off the bench as a release valve scorer. He may not fit the (in my opinion over-rated) “3 and D” label but he’s a a solid defender who has more of a mid-range arsenal so who cares where the points come from. He’s taking pressure off James and Davis as much as Reaves does who is doing a great job filling whatever gaps the starting 5 has on a by-game basis.
3) Take what the Grizz are showing. A lot of our turnovers come from forced passes inside or dribbling into multiple defenders. Gotta keep the TO’s low tonight because you know Memphis is bringing a physical game to the arena. We want to score in the paint but we want to limit their transition points just as much.
4) AD needs to stay out of foul trouble. This is easy to say, harder to do because you never know how the whistle will blow. Keep defending and contesting and use that challenge wisely.
5) Kick them while they’re down. Memphis needs this game as much, if not more, than we do. Lose and they need to win out which means winning a game here where they haven’t done so, yet. Don’t give them a shred of confidence. Stay on you assignment, communicate on D, and find the open man. Maybe Malik has a big game, maybe we see LW4 or Bamba (kinda doubt it on both but you never know) but however this shakes out let your defense be your guide.
My only wish tonight is no turnovers – Please!!
“Maybe Malik has a big game, maybe we see LW4 or Bamba (kinda doubt it on both but you never know) but however this shakes out let your defense be your guide.”
That is what I am curious to see. Very good post, Jamie.