Inside The Nets

GAME PREVIEW AND INJURY REPORT: Brooklyn Nets vs. Memphis Grizzlies

The Nets are looking to bounce back from a long four-game losing streak.

Peter Sunjic

© Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports
In this story:

Brooklyn suffered a deflating loss to the Timberwolves recently. It could’ve been a better result for interim head coach Kevin Ollie if the Nets hit more three-pointers, as they shot 6-for-36.

Now, the Nets move on to a matchup with the Memphis Grizzlies, which has been a struggling team for the season. It is Brooklyn’s golden opportunity for the team’s goal of making it into the Play-In Tournament, especially since they’re only a few games behind the Atlanta Hawks.

The Grizzlies are still dangerous

Despite a lengthy injury list, the Grizzlies have shown they could keep up with some of the league’s best teams. They beat the Milwaukee Bucks a few weeks ago, proving that Brooklyn should not underestimate this team.

Reigning Defensive Player of the Year Jaren Jackson Jr. leads Memphis’ depleted lineup as the best offensive and defensive star. However, some Grizzlies have shown rapid development for rookie GG Jackson and sophomore Vince Williams Jr.

Brooklyn still has some work to do, given they shot themselves in the foot against the Timberwolves. If they could’ve made more shots from beyond the arc and were more consistent with their energy, they could’ve easily beaten the Western Conference’s best team.

Now, the Nets travel to Memphis, where the Grizzlies await. It won’t be an easy game because players like Williams and Jackson will make every Nets offensive possession challenging.

Mikal Bridges and Cameron Thomas will be the ones to watch for the Nets, but expect them to get their teammates more involved. The team must build a rhythm with perimeter shooting, and relying on the two best offensive players to become playmakers will be the way to go.

Injury report

Against the Timberwolves, Ben Simmons suffered a leg injury that makes him questionable for this game. Thankfully, the rest of the Brooklyn lineup is healthy, continuing to help build continuity with the squad.

Memphis has an injury crisis as superstar guard Ja Morant is out for the season with a right shoulder injury. Ja’s backcourt mate Desmond Bane is on the sidelines until late March. John Konchar, Marcus Smart, Brandon Clarke, and Scotty Pippen Jr. join the starting backcourt as the sidelined players for the Grizzlies. 

Dorian Finney-Smith recalls the time he played against Kevin Ollie's UConn team

Published
Peter Sunjic
PETER SUNJIC

Peter's journey with basketball commenced in the first grade, and it has since evolved into an integral part of his life. Standing on the brink of a potential professional playing career, Peter ultimately chose to pursue a degree in Political Science and Journalism in Zagreb, Croatia. Despite this academic pursuit, his deep-rooted love for the game of basketball endured, undiminished. Now, as a writer and editor, Peter finds an avenue to channel his unwavering passion for basketball-related news and analysis. Whether it's deciphering the latest happenings or delving into the lore of old-school basketball, he covers every corner of the NBA world.

Home/Gameday