Memphis Grizzlies bounce back against Los Angeles Clippers

The Memphis Grizzlies (6-3) opened up the first of five straight on the road, taking down the Los Angeles Clippers (5-3) at Staples Center.

The Memphis Grizzlies headed into game number nine with intentions on ending a two game losing streak. After an emotional loss to the Orlando Magic on Wednesday night in Memphis, the Grizzlies would head on the road. A five-game road could bring the team back together, and would open on Saturday afternoon against the rival Los Angeles Clippers.

1st Quarter:

The Grizzlies led the Clippers 27-25 at the end of one quarter of play. After one quarter there was a noticeable difference. Grizzlies guard Mike Conley returned from a sore achilles injury, and looked like his old self to open the game. In nine minutes of play, Conley had 9 points and shot 3-7 from the field and 2-4 from three.

2nd Quarter:

The Grizzlies’ “bench squad” outscored the Clippers bench early. Midway through the second quarter, the bench had a 23-11 advantage on the Clippers bench. Mario Chalmers, after having a “come to Jesus” game, came out and started playing efficient basketball again. The Grizzlies had an 11 point lead at one point, but seemed to let off the gas peddle towards the end of the second quarter. They built their lead back up to 12 points, but ended the half with a four point lead (60-56).

First half Analysis:

Adding rookie Dillon Brooks, and removing Andrew Harrison helped a lot. Harrison didn’t see any time throughout the first half. The Grizzlies bench outscored the Clippers bench 31-13, again proving that they’re the number one bench in the Association. James Ennis continued his efficient scoring in games and was 100 percent from the field. Mike Conley looked quicker and more of himself. Conley and Gasol orchestrated the offense well, gaving the team the lead at the half.

First Half Stat Lines:

Mike Conley: 13 points on 4-9 shooting from the field and 3-6 from 3-point range.

Mario Chalmers: 9 ponts on 4-6 shooting and was a +3.

James Ennis: 10 points on 4-4 shooting (2-2 from 3).

Third Quarter:

The Grizzlies offense had its moments of life to start the second half.

They built their lead back up to 10, but gave up another big lead. Although the Grizzlies kept giving up big leads, they always answered with some type of run to build the lead back up. Brandon Wright came in towards the end of the third quarter and played the same role he did in the second quarter — rebounding and defense. He had nine points at the end of the third quarter.

The Grizzlies made a little run at the end of the third quarter to lead the Clippers, 87-80. At the end of the third, the Grizzlies’ bench had outscored the Clippers bench 45-20 at that point as well.

Fourth Quarter:

The bench unit would be the story of the second half, keeping the Grizzlies ahead through every run the Clippers made. Chandler Parsons and Brandon Wright played extremely well on offense and defense. In order for the team to put the cap on the game, the starters had to come in and put it away. They did that and more, as the Grizzlies went on to win 113-104 in Los Angeles.

Second Half Analysis:

The Grizzlies were able to weather every run the Clippers made at their double-digit lead. Leading by as much as 12, when the starters exited the game, the bench held their own, and then some.

What’s Next?

The Memphis Grizzlies will stay the night in Los Angeles to take on the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center tonight.