Dallas Mavericks back-up point guard J.J. Barea agreed with the analysis posted on SB Nation Dallas earlier Wednesday morning, saying he'd rather face the Memphis Grizzlies over the Oklahoma City Thunder in the next round of the NBA Playoffs during an interview with ESPN's "First Take."
↵In four games against the Grizzlies this season, Barea averaged 8.8 points while shooting 42 percent from the field. Against the Thunder, Barea averaged 8.0 points in three contests while connecting on just 40 percent of his field goal attempts, but those numbers are close enough that it probably didn't affect his decision.
↵"I think personally, if I have a preference, I would rather play Memphis, I think," Barea said when asked which opponent best suited his style of play. "But it really don't matter. As a team, if we keep doing what we're doing and play defense the way we are and scoring the ball, we're going to be fine."
↵It's a bit disappointing Barea didn't use the word "hella" during the quick sound bite -- that might end up becoming bulletin board material in the Memphis locker room if they're able to advance -- but at least he's on the same page as your's truly.