New city. Multiple injuries. A losing record.
Grizzlies head coach Sidney Lowe -- a former Timberwolves player, broadcaster, assistant coach and head coach -- has been watching so much game tape lately, he hasn't eaten barbecue, a local staple, in a month.

So who better than Lowe to analyze the Wolves' strong start?

His take: stronger defense and better execution.

Lowe said when he was with the team two seasons ago he thought the Wolves were one of the best offensive teams in the league. But the team has gotten even better "because some of the young guys aren't that young anymore, and the new guys understand it a lot better," Lowe said.