The Memphis Grizzlies played the New Orleans Pelicans on the second night of a back-to-back game. Unlike last night, they would have their electric superstar Ja Morant. This was his first game back after serving a 25-game suspension. Having Morant back is a huge boost for the Grizzlies as they try to snap their five-game losing streak and get back into the winning column.
Game Recap
With Ja Morant back, he would immediately take his place in the starting lineup. Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins told reporters before the game that he would slowly ramp up Morant’s minutes as he gets himself back in the swing of things. But in a game of this magnitude, the best player has to be on the floor.
The first quarter was back and forth for both teams as neither shot the ball well from the field. Zion Williamson picked up two fouls early, so he did not see much first-quarter action. Despite that, the Pelicans led most of the quarter until the Grizzlies went on a 12-5 run to close it out.
The second quarter was all about the Pelicans as they outscored the Grizzlies 39-16. Not only did the Pelicans regain the lead, but they extended their lead with a 28-2 run. CJ McCollum scored 12 of his 18 points in the second quarter, and the Pelicans could not miss. They would lead by as many as 24 points before Memphis closed the first half on an 8-3 run.
While New Orleans has been this season, their biggest struggle is maintaining a big lead. Tonight was no different as the Grizzlies began the third quarter on a quick 6-0 scoring run. Eventually, they cut the deficit to single digits and both teams took turns making shots. The fourth quarter was the same story as both teams kept making shots and getting stops. The Grizzlies would make the comeback and win the game 115-113 to snap their five-game losing streak.
The Grizzlies outscored the Pelicans 62-50 in the paint, grabbed 13 offensive rebounds, and scored 17 second-chance points. The Pelicans won the turnover battle, scoring over 22 points off the Grizzlies’ 17 turnovers. But when it matters, there is one guy you call and that is 12.
Ja Morant’s Stellar Return
The player of the night was Ja Morant, who scored 22 points in the second half (13 in the third and 14 in the fourth) after scoring just 12 in the first half. He finished with 34 points, which is the most points ever scored in NBA history by a player who has missed 25 or more games. He also had six rebounds, eight assists, two steals and a block. One of the most exciting young players
Not only did he lead the Grizzlies to the comeback win, but he hit the game-winner buzzer-beater. This is what the Grizzlies have missed for the first 25 games of the season. With Ja Morant officially back and a nice comeback win in his return, this can be something the team builds on as they look to improve their record.
What’s Next
The Memphis Grizzlies will play the Indiana Pacers on Thursday, December 21. This will be the first home game for Ja Morant this season, and he will go head-to-head with rising young star Tyrese Haliburton.
The New Orleans Pelicans will travel to Ohio and play the Cleveland Cavaliers on Thursday as well as they look to bounce back.
Photo Courtesy: Matias Grez from CNN
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