The Memphis Grizzlies have found some strong production from Grayson Allen, the polarizing former Duke Blue Devil. He has been one of the few strong 3-point shooters on this team, helping them stay in the middle of the pack in the NBA in that category.
In his past 7 games, he has scored over 20 points twice, proving that he can be a huge contributor for this team. He’s not a star, but he’s an important part of the lineup. That being said, he struggled in Friday night’s game against the Los Angeles Clippers. He didn’t score a point, shooting 0-4 from the field and 0-3 from 3-point range.
During the game, Allen sustained a concussion. This will knock him out of Sunday’s game against the Houston Rockets, a big blow for a Grizzlies team that has been playing up and down basketball lately.
The Memphis Grizzlies have played well with their full lineup intact
This Memphis team has played some of their best basketball when their entire rotation is healthy, something that we haven’t seen a lot of this year. In their first game with all 11 primary players in the lineup, the Grizzlies beat the Clippers in convincing fashion.
Grayson Allen’s absence will be a huge blow to a team that is looking to stay in the playoff conversation. Every game is going to count for the Grizzlies, a team that barely had an opportunity to compete for a spot in the playoffs last season.
With Jaren Jackson Jr. still out, the loss of Allen will add insult to injury. Taylor Jenkins will have to create a game plan that doesn’t require as much shooting and less spacing of the floor, as Allen is one of the best shooters on the squad.
Each game going forward will be vitally important for this Grizzlies team, so the timing of his return will be a huge story going forward. If he comes back around the same time as Jackson, this team could be a dangerous competitor as we approach the NBA Playoffs.
Regardless, the Grizzlies will miss his presence in a game that they should win against the Houston Rockets. We’ll see how this team responds to an injury from a guy who has started a lot of games this season.