In Tuesday night’s matchup with the Grizzlies, the Wolves are faced with the
task of scoring on a defense that always seems to give them fits. Something
about Memphis’ size, tenacity and veteran experience doesn’t jive well with the
Wolves–and it’s been like that for a while.
However, there is a key for the Wolves to beating Memphis’ defense–playing good
defense of their own and using that as an opportunity to get out in the open
court.
“We will emphasize pace as we always do,” said Interim Head Coach Ryan Saunders.
“It really does start with getting stops, we get stops and try to get in the
open court, we’re a better team for it.”
If the Wolves can get out early and take a lead that would be extremely
helpful–the Grizzlies are disciplined and dangerous in close games. Minnesota
hoped to use its youth an athleticism to jump on Memphis early and run away with
the game.
“They’re older, they play with more of a vet approach and they have a lot of
experience, especially Marc as a floor spacer.”
Whatever it takes, Gibson is ready to execute, that’s who he’s always been as a
player.
“It’s just who he is. He wants to win at all costs. That means different things,
but to him he’s the type of guy you never have to worry about, he always wants
to give himself up for the team,” said Saunders.
It’s going to take a group effort tonight, as the injury woes for the Wolves
aren’t going away. Derrick Rose, Robert Covington and Tyus Jones are all out
nursing various injuries, and Jeff Teague, while improving, is still doubtful to
play.
“It’s one of those things when you’re down on numbers like we are and down at a
specific position it’s all hands on deck,” said Saunders. “We’re doing whatever
we can to try and scratch one out.”
The Wolves take on the Grizzlies at 7 p.m. CT, you can read our scouting report
here.
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