Grizzlies Fight, But Fall Against The Beard And Company

The Grizzlies (36-27)  couldn’t keep pace with the Rockets (44-19) hot shooting, losing the game 108-123, thus evening out the season series at 2-2.

Turning Point

In the first half, the game was competitive. By halftime, the score was 55-51 with the Rockets holding a slight lead. Not so bad, only a four-point deficit at the half. Most of the time, that can be overcome with a few changes at the intermission, unless a certain someone on the other team erupts.

That someone certainly did catch fire. It was none other than the man in the race for MVP, James Harden. In the 3rd quarter alone, he scored 20 of his 33 points. From that point on, the Grizzlies couldn’t seem to make any significant push to catch up.

Player Of The Night

Leading the team in rebounding and posting a double-double, Jamychal Green (20 points and 10 rebounds). This was an important night for Jamychal, regardless of the final score, because of the confidence boost.

If he can build on this performance and combine that with a better night from the rest of the team, the Grizzlies will be back on track in no time.

Playoff Picture

While any loss hurts, this one has an extra sting to it. The loss drops Memphis a half-game ahead of the Thunder for the 6th seed. Plus, while the Grizzlies were playing in Houston, the 5th seed Clippers came away with a 101-91 victory in Chicago, putting them 1.5 games ahead of the Grizzlies.

More from Beale Street Bears

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• Jaren Jackson Jr. puts ex-Grizzlies teammate on notice
• 3 players Grizzlies would consider trading Ja Morant for
• Grizzlies star Jaren Jackson Jr. put on blast following FIBA elimination
• Ex-Grizzlies guard signs with title favorite, joins forces with 6-time All-Star

What’s Next?

Memphis looks to get things back in order as they return home and begin a four-game homestand starting Monday against the Brooklyn Nets (10-51).