Will the Grizzlies have their revenge against Dillon Brooks?

The Memphis Grizzlies enter the 2024-25 season with plenty of motivation, fueled by a desire to bounce back from last year’s unexpected downturn. Ranked 14th in nationally televised games and facing one of the toughest groups in the in-season tournament, the Grizzlies are ready to prove they belong among the Western Conference's elite.

While players might not always admit it, certain matchups carry extra significance. For Ja Morant and the Grizzlies, getting back to the top means facing off against teams - and former teammates - who capitalized on their struggles last season. Here are some of the most intriguing revenge matchups the Grizzlies will face this season.

The Dillon Brooks challenge

One of the most anticipated matchups for the Grizzlies this season will be against former teammate Dillon Brooks. Now, with the Houston Rockets, Brooks didn’t hide his desire to beat the Grizzlies after they parted ways. Last season, he succeeded in doing so three times, with some memorable moments along the way.

In his first game back at FedEx Forum, Brooks hit a crucial 3-pointer late in the fourth quarter to seal the victory for Houston. Despite Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr. being on the court, Ja Morant was unavailable, serving a 25-game suspension. This season, however, Memphis will have its full roster available for their first matchup on October 25, where Brooks will likely be tasked with defending Morant. This showdown is set to be one of the season's most exciting encounters.

Marcus Smart’s return to Boston

Another matchup that will carry significant emotional weight is Marcus Smart’s return to Boston. Last season, Smart was set to face his former team, but an injured finger kept him sidelined. Despite the warm reception from Boston fans, the Grizzlies suffered a crushing 40-point defeat.

With a retooled roster and a healthy lineup, Smart’s return to Boston on December 7 offers a chance for redemption. The competitive fire that defines Smart makes this game particularly important, as he’ll look to lead the Grizzlies to a statement win against the reigning NBA champions.

As the Grizzlies prepare for the 2024-25 season, these key matchups represent more than just games - they are opportunities for redemption and a chance to reassert themselves as a force in the Western Conference. With key players like Morant and Smart ready to go, Memphis is poised to rise to the challenge.

Related: ESPN releases surprising win-loss projection for Memphis next season