MEMPHIS, Tenn. – The Toronto Raptors secured a hard-fought 116-111 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday, with standout performances from Immanuel Quickley and Pascal Siakam. Despite a late rally by Memphis, the Raptors managed to hold on for the win.
Quickley, who recently joined the Raptors in a trade from the New York Knicks, impressed with 26 points, demonstrating his shooting prowess by going 5 of 8 from beyond the arc. Toronto coach Darko Rajakovic praised Quickley’s fit with the team, highlighting his ball-handling and shooting skills as key assets. Quickley himself noted the smooth transition to the Raptors, attributing it to the organization’s welcoming and family-like environment.
Siakam contributed significantly with 24 points, and Scottie Barnes added 20, underlining Toronto’s balanced offensive attack.
Ja Morant led the Grizzlies with a strong all-around performance, scoring 28 points, along with nine assists and eight rebounds. Jaren Jackson Jr. added 24 points, with a notable 13 in the fourth quarter, while Desmond Bane and Ziaire Williams scored 22 and 18 points, respectively.
Despite the loss, Memphis coach Taylor Jenkins shouldered the responsibility for the team’s lackluster start, but his players, including Bane, emphasized that the onus was on them to perform better.
The Raptors established a commanding lead in the third quarter, leading by as many as 18 points. However, the Grizzlies fought back in the final quarter, narrowing the gap to just five points on several occasions. Toronto’s early lead proved to be just enough cushion to secure the win, despite Memphis’ late surge, characterized by improved shooting accuracy and a more aggressive approach.
Rajakovic acknowledged the Raptors’ loss of control in the fourth quarter, pointing to execution issues that nearly cost them the game.
Looking ahead, the Raptors continue their six-game road trip with a game against Sacramento, while the Grizzlies embark on a three-game road journey, starting with the Los Angeles Lakers. Both teams, currently below the playoff threshold in their respective conferences, will be keen to build on their recent performances as they push for a spot in the postseason.
