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#2 Memphis Grizzlies
In the process of winning eight of their last ten games, the Memphis Grizzlies have beaten quality squads like Houston Rockets, Oklahoma City Thunder and Los Angeles Clippers. The team is currently placed at the 8th spot on a stuffed Western Conference leaderboard, with a respectable 19-22 (0.463) record so far.
Ja Morant is leading the 'Rookie of the Year' race, and his grit is rubbing off on the entire squad. This team is top 10 in field-goal percentage, total blocks, and scoring average while leading the league in assists per game (27.9) as well. Coach Tyler Jenkins has worked meticulously on increasing the pace of this team, and so far the rebuild is in full swing.
#3 New Orleans Pelicans
Coming into this season, the New Orleans Pelicans were expected to be arguably the most exciting young squad to look forward to. But injuries to prominent names have kept them from attaining full potential all year long. Currently, the Pels are 15-26 (0.366) to start the season.
However, the recent surge by this young core has won them 8 of their last 11 games, as the franchise starts to make its way up the West standings. Moreover, with the return date of Zion Williamson set for January 22, the Pelicans find themselves amidst the perfect setting to make that final playoff push.
