Charlotte Bobcats at Memphis Grizzlies game preview

Ever since trading Rudy Gay, the Grizzlies haven't exactly had the toughest time. With Tayshaun Prince, they've gone 23-9. Prince isn't as big a scoring threat as Gay, but he's also less of a potential scoring liability. Prince doesn't take as many shots and definitely works less out of isolation, and he adds better defense and veteran savvy.

So it's not too surprising they're doing as well as they are even with the midseason roster shuffling. Marc Gasol is having a great year and remains one of the top centers in the league because of his good touch and fantastic basketball IQ when it comes to passing. Zach Randolph's scoring efficiency may not be what it once was a few years ago, but he's still one of the best rebounders in the league. And we can't overlook Mike Conley, who's developed into a very solid guard. He's quick and a strong defender and a decent shooter. Oh, and Tony Allen's a fantastic defender and will likely make life tough for Gerald Henderson

It will require a supreme effort by Charlotte to win this game if Memphis brings their normal level of play. Charlotte will need to limit the Grizzlies' ball movement, force them into turnovers and get to the free throw line a bunch. The Bobcats often lose if they give up a ton of threes, but Memphis isn't exactly a team full of sharpshooters. However, they do hold opponents to a very low three-point percentage, so the Bobcats might find themselves relying on inside play to balance the difficulties from deep, which could make for a very long night.