Memphis Grizzlies drop preseason game to Rockets – RECAP

The Memphis Grizzlies played one of the best teams in the Western Conference, the Houston Rockets, on Wednesday night at FedEx Fourm, but fell short 101-89.

The Memphis Grizzlies faced a tough test on Wednesday night against the Houston Rockets. While they held their own for the first three quarters, the Rockets reclaimed the lead mid-way through the third quarter and never looked back.

Even though the Grizzlies lost, it’s the preseason, and I learned more about what Head Coach David Fizdale plans to do with the team’s rotation come opening night next Wednesday.

What did we learn from each rotational player in last night’s game?

Starters

• Mike Conley

Conley had a solid night, attacking the basket and looking for contact from Houston defenders. However, he still doesn’t seem to have the respect of the NBA officials, continuing to plead his case for most underrated player. Conley turned 30 years old yesterday and didn’t show any signs of age. In 22 minutes of play, he had eight points, four assists and five rebounds.

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• Andrew Harrison

Overall, Harrison had a pretty great night. I’ve learned to respect what he brings to the floor night-in-out for the Grizzlies. His offensive game isn’t the best, but it’s smart. Harrison continues to show that his game is built for the NBA level. His ability to switch speeds and to keep the defenders on his back hip for leverage is pretty impressive. His shot selection seems to still have its moments, but he’s improving. Through his four games of the preseason, Harrison has won me over on the defensive end, which should help him make the roster.

• James Ennis

Ennis had a great night starting at the 3-spot. He’s controversially starting over none other than Chandler Parsons. Ennis has more elements to his game that’ll help the starting unit succeed more throughout the season. “He has quick feet,” former Memphis Grizzlies Head Coach Hubie Brown pointed out in the second quarter of last night’s game. Ennis plays better defense than we give him credit for and is smart offensively. With his play this preseason, it looks like he’ll be the starting small forward on opening night.

• JaMychal Green

Green had a quiet night, only playing19 minutes. He’s exactly what the Grizzlies need at the starting 4-position to complement Marc Gasol. Green had four points, two assists and four rebounds in last night’s game.

• Marc Gasol

Gasol had a solid offensive game last night. He seemed to get to the post quicker than the defense at times … Did I mention he was playing a very athletic Clint Capela? Gasol continues to impress on both end of the court. Gasol only played 23 minutes last night and had 12 points, four assists and two rebounds.

Other Guys

• Dillon Brooks

Brooks had a great night for the Grizzlies. Last night, I kept track of rotations by hand. When Brooks was inserted into the game in the first quarter at the 3:50 mark, he played 12 minutes and 15 seconds before being subbed out late in the second quarter. Brooks will play a huge role for Grizzlies off the bench this season, and has proven that he can do so as a rookie. It’ll be fun to watch him grow this season.

• Chandler Parsons

I could sit here and really bash Parsons for his horrible play, but he hasn’t been that bad. Yeah, he hasn’t produced as expected, but he has moved well within the offense. He’s still trying to find his legs with adrenaline in them. See, practice is one thing, but remembering the fundamentals with the bright lights on is tough — especially at the NBA speed. I’m still giving him time to find his way. I also like what Fizdale is doing to he and Tyreke Evans as both are recovering from injuries. Relearning the game post injury can be hard, and it seems like Parsons and Evans are slowly finding their way.

Related Story: Should Grizzlies use Parsons off the bench?

Looking Ahead

The Memphis Grizzlies will finish up their preseason run against the New Orleans Pelicans Friday night, October 13th at 7:00 PM ct at Fedex Forum. We’ll see Tony Allen in a different uniform for the first time, making it definitely worth tuning into.

The Grizzlies will look to finish their preseason at 3-2 on Friday, but expect minutes from the young guys in their last in-game audition.