In a pivotal game, Desmond Bane showcased his scoring prowess, tallying 27 points to guide the Memphis Grizzlies to their second win of the season. The victory, a hard-fought 105-101 triumph over the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday, highlighted the resilience of a Grizzlies team awaiting the return of suspended All-Star guard Ja Morant.
Coach Taylor Jenkins commended his team’s focus, stating, “Our guys were pretty dialed in. We tried to make it extremely tough on these guys, and the defense set the tone.”
The win streak, albeit modest at 2-8, is a testament to the Grizzlies’ determination, both wins secured on the road. The team eagerly anticipates Morant’s return next month after a 25-game suspension.
Key Points:
- Luke Kennard, facing his former team, played a crucial role off the bench, scoring 13 points, including four 3-pointers.
- Memphis demonstrated sharpshooting from beyond the arc, making 13 3-pointers compared to the Clippers’ seven in the fourth quarter.
- Paul George led the Clippers with 26 points, supported by Norman Powell’s 20 points and Russell Westbrook’s all-around performance on his 35th birthday.
Player Insights:
- James Harden, acquired by the Clippers this month, made an impact off the bench with 11 points, including a tying 3-pointer late in the game.
Coach Tyronn Lue, assessing Harden’s performance, remarked, “He’s being too polite.”
Kawhi Leonard, reflecting on his new teammate, said, “I think he’s being aggressive when he is getting the ball.”
Game Dynamics:
Despite a strong fourth-quarter push by the Clippers, outscoring the Grizzlies 33-26, Memphis secured the win by converting crucial free throws in the final minutes.
The Grizzlies’ dominance was evident from the start, as they made seven 3-pointers, establishing a 13-point lead in the first quarter. The Clippers, plagued by early turnovers, failed to take the lead throughout the game.
Outlook:
The Grizzlies look forward to the imminent return of Ja Morant, aiming to build on their recent success and climb in the standings. Meanwhile, the Clippers, facing their fifth consecutive loss, seek improvement to regain momentum in the competitive NBA landscape.
FAQs:
- When is Ja Morant expected to return?
- Ja Morant is anticipated to return from his 25-game suspension next month.
- How many games has the Grizzlies won this season?
- The Grizzlies have secured two victories so far in the current season.
- What was James Harden’s impact in the game?
- James Harden, coming off the bench, contributed 11 points, including a crucial tying 3-pointer.
Conclusion:
In a thrilling matchup, the Memphis Grizzlies showcased their resilience, securing a significant victory over the Los Angeles Clippers. The anticipation of Ja Morant’s return adds to the team’s optimism as they navigate the challenges of the NBA season.
Reporter
