And just like that, welcome to Day 1 of the NBA’s Play In Tournament.
When the NBA announced the Play In idea, there was obviously some initial pushback.
Plus, the games are usually pretty great too, as everyone treats it like a playoff game.
I personally love it.
If you don’t want to be involved in it, be better.
Be better and win the game.
That’s a tough draw.
What makes this matchup so interesting is that these two teams are basically the exact opposite of each other.
With the Magic, you have one of the league’s best defenses, even with all their injuries.
They ranked dead last in 3P% at just 31.8% as a team.
On the flip side, you have the Hawks.
What other perimeter defender is going to be able to make a defensive impact?
They already have to worry about Trae being hunted, so can Terrance Mann provide some resistance?
Is Zaccharie Risacher ready for that challenge?
The Hawks meanwhile, can hurt you in a variety of ways offensively.
We’ve seen him do it year after year, the man has zero fear.
Given how poor the Magic shoot, they’re going to have their fair share of OREB opportunities.
The beauty of this matchup is something is going to have to give.
How do we know this?
The good news, is the Warriors have Steph Curry.
), defensively they’re the best defense in the NBA with a 109 DRTG.
This isn’t like in the East where your reward for winning this game is the Champs.
In the West, it results in what in theory, is the easier playoff path.
This is why you have Steph.
It’s why you traded for Jimmy.
Having said that, that’s the beauty of the Play In.
One bad night is all it takes.
Maybe Steph is cold.
Maybe Jimmy lays an egg.
Maybe the 3PAs don’t drop for whatever reason.
But honestly, that jot down of prayer is probably the Grizzlies' best shot.
It’s no secret that the Grizzlies have been sliding.
That’s partially what makes them so confusing as to why they aren’t better than their record shows.
Aside from beating anyone good, their other problem is turnovers.
In terms of points off TOs, the Grizzles rank 28th in the NBA.
The one thing you CANNOT do against a Steph Curry team is be careless with the basketball.
That, means death.
So just add it all up.
It’s simple win, and you’re in.
And your season is on life support.
It doesn’t get much better than that.
