Tag: Memphis Grizzlies

by Richard Miller (US)

Bulls Rally Past Grizzlies for a 118-110 Victory, DeRozan Leads with 30 Points

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Chicago Bulls mounted a spirited fourth-quarter rally to overcome the Memphis Grizzlies 118-110 on Thursday night, showcasing their depth and resilience. DeMar DeRozan spearheaded the Bulls’ offense with a game-high 30 points, leading his team to its second consecutive win and third in their last four outings.

Andre Drummond’s impactful double-double, consisting of 21 points and 13 rebounds, alongside his impressive 10 of 11 shooting from the field, was instrumental in the victory. Nikola Vucevic and Coby White each contributed significantly, adding 20 points apiece, with Vucevic also securing 10 rebounds.

The strategic decision by Bulls coach Billy Donovan to deploy centers Drummond and Vucevic together on the court paid dividends, as the duo dominated the paint and led Chicago to a commanding 46-34 rebounding advantage over Memphis. This unconventional lineup posed a unique challenge for the Grizzlies, with Drummond expressing enthusiasm about the potential of this partnership.

Memphis, despite a strong performance from Jaren Jackson Jr., who scored 28 points before fouling out, and an impressive showing from GG Jackson with 27 points, could not stave off the Bulls’ late surge. The Grizzlies, who have been plagued by injuries, suffered their seventh consecutive loss, struggling to maintain their lead in the fourth quarter.

GG Jackson, a two-way player and a notable pick from last year’s draft, provided a silver lining for Memphis with his scoring versatility, earning praise from Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins. However, the team’s reliance on a makeshift lineup in critical moments of the game, particularly in the closing quarters, has been a recurring challenge this season.

The game was tightly contested, with neither team able to establish a double-digit lead. Entering the fourth quarter with a slight edge, Memphis extended their lead to six points, only for Chicago to respond with a decisive 19-6 run, claiming a 104-97 advantage and ultimately securing the win.

This matchup further highlighted the Grizzlies’ struggle to find consistency with their ever-changing starting lineups, exacerbated by recent trades and ongoing injury woes. The return of Jaren Jackson Jr. after a brief absence due to hip soreness was a notable moment, with the forward making an immediate impact.

As the Bulls look ahead to continuing their four-game road trip in Orlando, the Grizzlies aim to halt their losing streak in Charlotte. Both teams face the challenge of adjusting to recent roster changes and finding a winning formula as they navigate through the remainder of the season.

by Abhishek Shukla

Celtics Dominate Grizzlies, Tatum Leads with Stellar Performance

BOSTON — The Boston Celtics, led by Jayson Tatum’s 34 points, effortlessly dispatched the Memphis Grizzlies 131-91 on Sunday night, showcasing their depth and prowess despite the absence of Jaylen Brown due to a back injury. Tatum, who sat out the final quarter, also contributed eight rebounds and seven assists, demonstrating his leadership and skill as Boston capitalized on a Grizzlies team limited by injuries.

The Celtics faced a Memphis squad reduced to only eight available players, yet Boston coach Joe Mazzulla praised his team’s focus and execution, reflecting a strong response after a recent loss. Kristaps Porzingis added 26 points, highlighting the Celtics’ offensive firepower and their dominance at TD Garden, where they have compiled an impressive 23-3 record.

Despite the Grizzlies’ depleted lineup, Scotty Pippen Jr., GG Jackson, and David Roddy stepped up, but their efforts were overshadowed by Boston’s comprehensive team performance. The Celtics’ bench saw significant action in the final quarter, underlining the depth and versatility of the league-leading team.

The night also served as an emotional homecoming for Marcus Smart, who was traded from Boston to Memphis. The Celtics celebrated Smart’s contributions with a video tribute and chants from fans, acknowledging his impact on the team and the community during his tenure in Boston.

As the Celtics gear up to host Atlanta, the Grizzlies aim to regroup against New York, each team focusing on maintaining momentum as they navigate through the season’s challenges.