5 promising statistics from Grizzlies’ dominant win over Cavaliers

Stat No. 2: The Memphis Grizzlies threw a block party at FedEx Forum and the Cavaliers were the guest of honor

On paper, eight blocks may not seem like much for a basketball team. Heck, for a Grizzlies franchise that is known for its tough defense and elite interior play, that number likely will not seem out of the ordinary at all.

It is.

To put this into perspective, the NBA’s leading team in terms of blocks per game in the 2020-21 season was the New Orleans Pelicans, who rejected 5.9 shots on the year. The Grizzlies weren’t far behind with 5.2

In the Grizzlies’ season opener, the team benefitted from a strong defensive night from Jaren Jackson Jr., who recorded four blocks on the night. Heck, I’d make the argument that he should have had five if not for a questionable foul call.

Steven Adams and Brandon Clarke each joined the block party with one rejection each.

Still, none of these were as memorable as Ja Morant’s block. The third-year Grizzly guard had what will stand as the block of the year for a while this season when he rose above the backboard to swat a Lauri Markkanen shot that was above the shooter’s square. You can see the video here if you’re interested.