The Memphis Grizzlies dropped their fifth straight regular season game against the San Antonio Spurs, 108-85.
The Memphis Grizzlies ran into the NBA dynasty that is the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday night, and it ended about how you would expect it to. Several players had solid games, and they definitely learned how to play the right way after the loss. Despite this, everal things stood out in the loss for the Grizzlies.
Consistency or lack there of:
The Grizzlies were without the lead from start to finish. Memphis only trailed by one point after the first quarter, but putting younger guys in bigger roles off the bench hurt in small increments throughout the remaining three quarters.
The thing about the three quarters was, they had opportunities to take the lead. In the first half, the Spurs missed a lot of open looks, leaving the door open for the Grizzlies, but they lacked offensive consistency. Then, when they were on the verge of something, the big guys down low gave up numerous offensive rebounds to the Spurs.
For the rest of the season, Marc Gasol needs to be a force more consistently. In the process, the young guys has to rally around him in this offense.
Guys not in the moment:
With a team that lacked veteran leadership tonight, I expected the young Grizzlies to play inconsistently, but looking lost was another level. Hearing Head Coach J.B. Bickerstaff yell “back door” or “lay it in” are things that shouldn’t be a concern.
Guys weren’t playing the game of basketball in the moment. Mario Chalmers and Deyonta Davis — who’s battling Ivan Rabb for the backup center position — just didn’t seem into the game last night when this team has no margin for error.
Young Guys Balled Out:
You take the small wins in a horrible loss like tonight.
Ivan Rabb, Wayne Selden, Kobi Simmons and Dillon Brooks continue to show that they’re the future of this franchise.
Bickerstaff threw Simmons in the game late into the third quarter, and he helped the Grizzlies trim the Spurs lead down to nine. He played smart defensively and had some nice shots on offense.
Rabb played really well, just as I expected. He shook off a shaky first half and finished strong in the second half. He hit a few mid-range jumpers, and didn’t hesitate when asked to score.
Selden continues to make progress after his quad injury, and it’ll be exciting to see what he can do once he really gets back into the flow of the game. He’s showing signs, but needs to put more games fully together.
Next: What does the future hold for the Grizzlies?
Tune in next game as the Memphis Grizzlies close their three-game homestand against the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday night.