No Marc Gasol, Chandler Parsons or Tony Allen? No problem. The Memphis Grizzlies fought a huge first quarter deficit to defeat the Minnesota Timberwolves, thanks to a career-high outing from JaMychal Green.
At the end of the first quarter, the Grizzlies trailed 31 to 15 and the chances of a win seemed bleak. The absence of Marc Gasol, Chander Parsons, and Tony Allen would prove to be too much to overcome. Why were they even resting? Does Fiz even know what he is doing? The questions ran amuck across Grizz Nation. Enter JaMychal Green:
From that point on Memphis outscored Minnesota 92 to 68, and grabbed a much needed win on the second night of a back to back.
This comeback was in large part thanks to the efforts of JaMychal Green. Green scored a career-high 29 points to go along with six boards. He owned the the paint, and helped create several second chance opportunities for the offense. His performance came against one of the league’s best young big men, Karl-Anthony Towns. Here’s what J-Myke had this to say about the matchup:
"“I live for them, “I always want to guard the best player. Tonight I had the opportunity to make him guard me.”"
This mentality is what makes Green such a special player, and why so many Memphians are falling in love with his play. If Green can continue develop consistency on the offensive end, he has what it takes to become a major weapon in the NBA.
MUST READ: JaMychal Green and the Road to Riches
Quick Hits:
- Mike Conley added to tonight’s scoring surge with a 20-point outing. His recent scoring outbursts continue to support why some say he was the biggest All-Star snub of the year. (We agree)
- Karl-Anthony Towns led the T-Wolves tonight with 28 points and 16 rebounds. Towns is establishing himself as one of the league’s most versatile big men, and he shows that ability each night.
- Zach Randolph had a rough evening only shooting 3 for 15, and fouling-out halfway through the fourth-quarter.
Related Story: What to expect from the Grizzlies in February
What’s next?
The Grizzlies return home from their long road trip with a 4-2 record, but a tough road lies ahead. Memphis finds the Spurs (Feb. 6) for the first time all year, followed by a visit from the last-place Phoenix Suns (Feb. 8). To cap off the week, the Grizzlies host the Golden State Warriors, who they are 2-0 against this season.
With the Grizzlies at full-strength it will be fun to see how they fare against the NBA’s best.
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