Memphis Grizzlies: Chalmers, Martin shine in preseason opener
Behind the efforts of Mario Chalmers and Jarell Martin, the Memphis Grizzlies prevailed over the Orlando Magic, 94-82. What were some other takeaways?
The NBA is back, and more importantly your Memphis Grizzlies are in action. The preseason isn’t glamorous as normal NBA basketball, but it’s just a sign that the regular season is near.
Last night, the Memphis Grizzlies had their first preseason game against the Orlando Magic. Even without JaMychal Green, Marc Gasol and Tyreke Evans, they still pulled away with the victory. Not to mention, none of the starters played over 20 minutes or scored double-digit points.
This game was all about Mario Chalmers and Jarell Martin.
Last night was Chalmers’ first game since March of 2016, and he looked great. He came away with 19 points on 7-of-10 shooting. In addition, his game never changed. Chalmers still attacked the basket to look for easy opportunities either at the rim or the free throw line. With the backup point guard spot wide open, Chalmers has done everything but lose it. It’s his for the taking.
Jarell Martin played like a man who wanted to keep his roster spot. After rumors of a potential release, Martin played like a man who wanted to be in the rotation instead. He finished 16 points on 7-of-8 shooting and four rebounds. He attacked the basket from the perimeter, connected from deep and threw down an emphatic jam over a solid shot-blocker:
If he keeps this up, the Grizzlies can’t cut him. He’ll be too valuable for the Grizzlies bench.
Other takeaways
Welcome to preseason!
The Memphis Grizzlies had more turnovers (17) than assists (16). Hopefully, it’s just a preseason thing.
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Wade Baldwin can rebound exceptionally well for a guard. The second-year player finished with six rebounds, only behind Brandan Wright (eight) and Deyonta Davis (seven). Having a guard that can rebound and immediately push the basketball is valuable, and it might help Baldwin keep his roster spot.
Deyonta Davis and Rade Zagorac were the only players to not score, shooting a combined 0-of-11 from the field. This isn’t a pleasant sign from guys you’re expecting to be on the 15-man roster.
Next Game
The Memphis Grizzlies will be back in action tomorrow night as they take on the Philadelphia 76ers on the road. Game time will be at 6:00 PM ct.