Charlotte Bobcats vs. Memphis Grizzlies preview -- Game 35

The Big Picture: All signs point to the game going on as scheduled tonight, even though there could be fewer than 1,000 people in the stands due to snowy and icy conditions in Charlotte that are worsening as the day goes on (and the BCS championship game tonight). Having driven in to and out of uptown Charlotte today, I'd discourage anyone who doesn't live within ten minutes from the arena -- via street routes -- from driving*. While the Bobcats and Grizzlies do often play in front of sparse crowds, this one will be unique. They may as well just move everyone downstairs and shut down the upper deck completely.

As for the game itself, Gerald Wallace is still out, so let's hope that we see a reprise of the show Gerald Henderson put on Saturday. Wallace was out the last time the Cats played the Grizz, a game that ended in a 33-point loss, with Rudy Gay and O.J. Mayo both going nova.

The good news is that even with Memphis shooting 4-15 from three (27%), they shot a ridiculous 52% from the field, overall. That likely won't happen again, given that Charlotte is holding opponents to 45% from the field and Memphis is shooting 46%. In theory, the Cats should have plenty of defensive talent to throw at Gay and Mayo, even with Crash out, especially since Tyrus Thomas -- health willing -- should get big minutes against Zach Randolph, allowing Dominic McGuire to do what he does against the wings.

Musical Interlude: 'N Sync -- "Gone"

Key to Victory: As referenced above, Henderson will likely play a major role in this game, and could see a lot of minutes matched up against Mayo, even though Tony Allen starts for the Grizzlies. Mayo will probably prove to be a much tougher cover than Kirk Hinrich or Nick Young.

Detail That May Interest .08% of You: I'm shocked that 'N Sync only released three studio albums and a Christmas album. Their run as a pop music phenomenon only went a few years, from 1998 to 2002, but it feels like a much longer period.