The Memphis Grizzlies might want to consider skipping halftime breaks. Heading into Wednesday night’s game against the Brooklyn Nets, the Grizzlies have consistently struggled with maintaining their defensive intensity after the break. Third quarters have been particularly problematic.
On Monday, a second-half collapse saw Memphis allow 39 points in the third quarter against the visiting Chicago Bulls, letting a 20-point lead slip away. A similar scenario occurred last week against the Houston Rockets, and even in their wins against the Jazz and Magic, the Grizzlies allowed at least 35 points in the third quarter. Coach Taylor Jenkins will be looking for a solution to these third-quarter lapses against the Nets.
Memphis led the Bulls by 14 at halftime, but the lead shrunk to 97-93 by the end of the troublesome third quarter. Without defensive stops, Memphis’ offensive rhythm falters. Grizzlies guard Desmond Bane pointed out that their offense thrives on solid defense.
The Grizzlies played without two-time All-Star guard Ja Morant on Monday, who missed the game due to right thigh soreness and is questionable for the game against Brooklyn. Rookie center Zach Edey, averaging 16 minutes per game, is also questionable with right calf soreness.
The Nets are coming off a 144-139 overtime loss to the Denver Nuggets on Tuesday night. Dennis Schroder continued his strong start, posting 28 points and 14 rebounds, averaging 22.5 points per game. Cam Thomas, who scored 26 points, is averaging 28.5 points over four games, though Nets coach Jordi Fernandez believes Thomas could score even more.
Brooklyn secured an impressive 115-102 win over Milwaukee on Sunday but has been hampered by injuries. Ben Simmons (back) did not play Tuesday and is expected to return Wednesday. Nic Claxton, who played 26 minutes on Tuesday after missing the preseason with a hamstring injury, will not play against Memphis due to “rest and recovery,” according to Fernandez.
