Struggling Grizzlies Host Surging Bucks
The Memphis Grizzlies play host to the Milwaukee Bucks at FedEx Forum on Wednesday.

The Bucks (31-12) come into this matchup winning 13 of their last 16 games, as they've solidified themselves as an elite team in the Eastern Conference. The recipe for this team is to play up-tempo and it's done wonders for them on both ends of the floor. In fact, Milwaukee ranks first in both points scored and rebounding, as that's obviously a recipe for success. The defense isn't shabby either, with this being the only club in the league who sits top-five in both offensive and defensive efficiency. Players like Khris Middleton and Eric Bledsoe have played below expectations too, so there's some thought that they could be even better going forward. That's a scary thought for opponents and the "feat the deer" monicker is as true as ever,

The Grizzlies (19-24) have hit an absolute wall, as they come into this matchup losing 15 of their last 19 games. What's really discouraging about that is the fact that they remained relatively healthy throughout that run, as Mike Conley and Marc Gasol are both playing nearly every game. Kyle Anderson did roll his ankle earlier this week though, as he's expected to miss at least two weeks of action. That'll force players like Omri Casspi and Justin Holiday to take on a bigger role, as they're desperate to find some offense. The Grizzlies currently rank 29th in scoring and dead-last in rebounding, as that's a recipe for disaster. One has to wonder if there's enough offensive talent on this team, as they're desperate for a knockdown shooter or a playmaker.

Memphis won their one game over Milwaukee earlier this season, 116-113, on November 14. Prior to that, the Bucks won four of their previous five games over the Grizzlies.
Posted on: 1/15/2019 6:11 PM