Grizzlies struggle to find consistency, fall short to Bulls
By Jerrod Smith
The Memphis Grizzlies still struggle to find consistency. After a 16-point comeback in Houston Friday night, they couldn’t find a way to beat the Bulls.
If there’s one problem with the Memphis Grizzlies, it has to be consistency. It’s hard to comprehend a team that is 4-0 against the Golden State Warriors and Houston Rockets, but loses to teams like the Chicago Bulls.
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The story of the night, though, is Doug McDermott. The third-year small forward scored a career-high 31 points. Most of those coming in the first half, he scored 20 of his 31 points in the second quarter.
Jimmy Butler was also Jimmy Butler. After the Grizzlies tied the game at 100 late in the 4th quarter, Butler kept hitting clutch shots. Eventually, he sank the game-winning shot when the Grizzlies failed to make their last attempt.
On a positive note, Memphis went for another double-digit game beyond the arc. Chandler Parsons, Mike Conley, JaMychal Green, Vince Carter, Marc Gasol and Zach Randolph combined for 11 three-pointers. Troy Daniels ended his 13-game streak of consecutive games with a three-pointer.
Mike Conley led the Grizzlies with with 28 points and eight assists. Gasol added a double-double (24 points and 11 rebounds), his sixth of the season. The two combined for 52 points. Randolph, Green and Carter also scored in double figures.
Can the Grizzlies find consistency?
Memphis may continue to struggle with consistency. Brandan Wright is coming back soon, adding another big man to the rotation. Andrew Harrison is out of the guard rotation to get three-point specialist Troy Daniels more minutes. Tony Allen as the back-up point guard also warrants adjustments.
Related Story: Andrew Harrison out; Troy Daniels in
Grizz nation should have no worries. Parsons has come alive and is building confidence. Also, rookie head coach David Fizdale is still figuring out his team that has been nagged with injuries all season. When playoff time comes around, the Grizzlies are going to be a scary team.
Memphis looks to bounce back this week with winnable games ahead.
Upcoming Games:
- Wednesday 1/18 at Washington
- Friday 1/20 vs Sacramento
- Saturday 1/21 vs Houston