The simplistic way to frame this series is as the grind-it-out, slow-it-down Grizzlies will try to suck the small-ball, running Warriors into their game. And this second round playoff series certainly is a clash of preferred styles.
But as I discuss with Jenna Corrado, the Grizzlies have a few problems beyond the pace. First off, the holes in Memphis’ defense — not stopping transition well, being average defending the arc, not stopping the ball handler in a pick-and-roll — line right up with Golden State’s strengths.
Beyond that, Golden State can grind better than people think. They can get sucked into Memphis’ style and be fine for a stretch. Memphis can’t do the reverse. It’s a bad matchup for the Griz.