Two NBA teams on different paths will face off Saturday night in Memphis.
Memphis Grizzlies
The Memphis Grizzlies are on a roll, having won five straight games, including a 139-126 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday. Despite missing two-time All-Star guard Ja Morant and top reserve Santi Aldama due to illness, the Grizzlies showcased their offensive firepower. Memphis leads the league in scoring average at 123.6 points per game.
A breakout week from reserve guard Luke Kennard has been a key factor in their recent success. Kennard scored 23 points off the bench in a 132-120 win over Charlotte on Wednesday, hitting 7 of his 11 3-point attempts. With Morant out, Kennard moved into the starting lineup against the Pelicans and scored a season-high 27 points, shooting 10 of 14 from the field, including 7 of 9 from long range.
Shooting guard Desmond Bane also stepped up, moving into Morant’s point guard position and dishing out 14 assists, despite an off shooting night.
Utah Jazz
The Utah Jazz, on the other hand, are struggling, having lost four straight games and seven of their past eight. The Jazz have fallen into last place in the Western Conference, but coach Will Hardy remains optimistic, noting improvements in certain areas.
Utah is coming off a 123-114 loss to Oklahoma City on Wednesday, where Thunder’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored a career-high 54 points. Despite the loss, the Jazz grabbed 23 offensive rebounds and scored 31 second-chance points.
Hardy welcomed back Lauri Markkanen and John Collins against the Thunder. Collins, who missed the previous five games with a left hip issue, led the Jazz with 22 points, while Markkanen, sidelined the previous four games with lower back spasms, added 17 points. All five starters scored in double figures.
Key Matchup
The Grizzlies’ high-octane offense will be tested against the Jazz’s rebounding prowess. With key players returning for Utah, they aim to turn their season around and end their losing streak. Memphis, however, looks to extend their winning run and continue their dominance in scoring.
