Most of the Memphis Grizzlies’ struggles this season have come on the road. Seven of their nine losses have come away from home, which makes even a matchup against one of the NBA’s worst teams a significant challenge.
Memphis makes a quick trip to Detroit on Sunday prior to a five-game homestand.
The Grizzlies have won three of their last four games, including a 117-109 triumph against Philadelphia on Friday. Memphis trailed after the first quarter but took command by outscoring the Sixers 35-24 in the second quarter.
As usual, floor leader Ja Morant led the team in scoring with 28 points. Jenkins was just as impressed with the play of his top big men. Center Steven Adams contributed nine points, 16 rebounds, six assists, three steals and three blocks.
Forward Jaren Jackson Jr. had 22 points, nine rebounds and four blocks. Jackson is averaging 19 points, 7.1 rebounds and 3.1 blocks in seven games after recovering from foot surgery.
The Pistons ended a three-game losing streak on Thursday with a 131-125 overtime victory against Dallas.
Much-maligned 2020 lottery pick Killian Hayes delivered one of the best outings of his young career. He hit three clutch jumpers and made a key assist during the fourth quarter. In overtime, he knocked down a pair of decisive 3-pointers and finished with 22 points and eight assists.
Hayes is getting extended playing time with last year’s top pick, Cade Cunningham, sidelined by a shin injury. He’s averaging 16.5 points and 7.8 assists over the past four games.
Hayes has been the target of the fans’ wrath for not living up to his draft status after being the No. 7 pick, but that could be changing.
