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The Memphis Grizzlies pulled off an incredible comeback in Game 3 of their western conference first round series against the Minnesota Timberwolves. They fell behind by 26 points in the first half, but managed to cut it to seven at halftime. The Timberwolves came out hot to start the third quarter and pushed it back to 21 points. That didn't phase the Grizzlies at all, as they went on a 21-0 run and ended up winning the game, 104-95.
Memphis now leads the best-of-seven series two games to one. Game 4 is slated for Saturday night in Minneapolis. The TWolves understandably likely are not feeling very good after blowing that game. But that doesn't mean they are going to lie down for the Grizzlies. Memphis is still going to need to play well on the road if they want to take complete control of the series and earn a shot at closing it out in Game 5 back in Memphis.
Here are my 3 bold predictions for the Memphis Grizzlies in Game 4 vs. the Timberwolves after their epic comeback.
3 Bold Predictions for Grizzlies in Game 4 vs. Minnesota Timberwolves
1. Ja Morant continues to struggle with his shot
In the win, Grizzlies superstar Ja Morant posted the first ever franchise triple double in playoff history.
More franchise history for @JaMorant 🥷 pic.twitter.com/EOzDFzhEw8
— Bally Sports: Grizzlies (@GrizzOnBally) April 22, 2022
Despite finishing with a triple double in Thursday's incredible comeback win, Morant did not have a good game. When you look deeper that just the triple double number, you see how erratic and ineffective he was. Morant turned the ball over seven times during the game. He consistently forced shots up that were contested, played very poorly in the fourth quarter, shooting 2-for-8.
Morant also missed two free throws but was bailed out on a lane violation. His teammates picked him up and he took the praise. This TWolves defense has done a great job on him thus far and will continue to do so in Game 4.
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2. Desmond Bane leads the team in scoring again
As much attention that Morant gets, the emergence of Desmond Bane is every bit as valuable to the Grizzlies success this year. Memphis was actually 20-5 in games when Morant did not play this season. Much of that has to do with Bane. He is a deadly three-point shooter who has a quick release. He does not need a lot of space to get his shot up and he plays very good defense.
With Morant drawing so much attention, Bane typically finds himself with clean looks. I expect him to knock down a few more triples and score in the mid-to-high 20's once again, leading the team.
3. Physical, low scoring affair sees the series even
This series has been all over the place. The Timberwolves easily won Game 1. The Grizzlies bounced back and dominated in Game 2. Game 3 saw both teams look great and terrible at different times. This series is destined to be tied at two games a piece, making it a best-of-three.
Anthony Edwards had a monster first game of the series and has been practically invisible since. I believe he will show up in a big way. The Minnesota team is not going to roll over and die.
