Memphis Grizzlies: Studs and Duds from tough loss vs Milwaukee Bucks

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - JANUARY 19: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies attempts to shoot over Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks during the first half at Fiserv Forum on January 19, 2022 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images)
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - JANUARY 19: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies attempts to shoot over Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks during the first half at Fiserv Forum on January 19, 2022 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images)
3 of 3
Memphis Grizzlies, Ja Morant
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN – JANUARY 19: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks talks to Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies as he hangs from the basket during the first half at Fiserv Forum on January 19, 2022 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images)

Memphis Grizzlies studs vs Milwaukee Bucks

Ja Morant

It’s comical to even try imagining where the Memphis Grizzlies would’ve been in this game if it weren’t for Ja Morant. The third-year guard finished with an impressive 31 points, 14 assists, and eight rebounds against the Milwaukee Bucks. He was single handily keeping the Grizzlies within striking distance especially during their attempted runs.

This marks only his fourth game of the season with 10+ assists for Morant. It’s a highlight for Memphis that their star point guard continues to improve his playmaking ability. The potential of this roster can increase to greater lengths than it currently is if Morant can become an elite playmaker for others.

Jaren Jackson Jr.

When looking at his plus/minus, Jaren Jackson Jr. wasn’t one of the best players on the Grizzlies, but he was the only other player on the team to provide Morant with some consistent support on the offensive side of the ball.

Jackson finished with 29 points, nine rebounds, and three blocks. His play in the fourth quarter was huge, giving Memphis life in their late attempt at a run. His ability to get to the free-throw line seemed like an anomaly considering he went to the line 10 out of the 22 times the Grizzlies went.

The fourth-year star continues to show just how good he can be and is starting to perform on a consistent basis.