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Grizzlies Outshine Elvis in Memphis

As one the harshest critiques of the Memphis Grizzlies, I have to admit that they have exceeded all of my expectation. I didn?t like West?s offseason moves and I didn?t think he did enough to strengthen the team. The Grizzlies are 9-5 coming off an impressive win in Dallas. The biggest reason for the Grizzlies new found success has been the play of Pau Gasol who is playing his ass off this year.

Gasol bulcked up over the summer and is now playing more aggressively in the paint. The Grizzlies franchise player has played on an All Star level averaging just slightly under 20 ppg and 9 rpg. Compared to his career numbers of 18.1 ppg and 8.3 rpg, Gasol is playing on a consistent level to say the least, but based on skill level alone, the team-wide and league-wide belief is that Pau is capable of playing better. The difference in Pau?s effectiveness can easily be in his mental and physical approach to the game.

Gasol plays the four, though he can be more effective as a five. During the summer, Pau elected not to represent his native country of Spain in Eurobasket 2005, a move that saddened the proud Spaniard but did allow him to rest his body and get stronger for the grind of the NBA season. Entering preseason, Pau?s weight had reached the upwards of 260 pounds. It?s no doubt the added weight and a rested body have contributed to his play so far this season, but there is still one factor that is being overlooked with Gasol that clearly defines his importance to the Grizzlies.