The Memphis Grizzlies, tasked with competing in their first road game of the 2022 NBA Playoffs, completed an epic comeback for the ages against the Timberwolves 104-95.
The Grizzlies come out of the gate in Game 3 flat and lethargic and Minnesota made them pay dearly. Minnesota got off to a 39-21 lead after the first quarter and forced Memphis to claw their way back into the game.
Memphis was down by as many as 26 points in the game. They had an epic counter-punch in the second quarter, outscoring Minnesota 23-12.
Quarter 3 was very similar to the first quarter. Minnesota came out with a ton of energy and got stops. They outpaced Memphis 32-23 in the quarter. But, then the fourth quarter happened.
Memphis went on an absolute tear in the fourth. They outscored Minnesota 37-12 in the fourth quarter to complete an epic comeback. The Grizzlies got hustle play after hustle play from Brandon Clarke, who finished the game with 20 points and 8 rebounds, and a block in 29 minutes off the bench.
The Grizzlies ended the final 13 minutes of the game on an improbable 42-12 run to seal the game to go up 2-1 in the series. It’s the largest come-from-behind win in franchise history.
Here are five takeaways from this pivotal matchup.
No 5. Has anyone seen Memphis Grizzlies forward Dillon Brooks?
Brooks hit a dagger three with 1:17 left in the game to seal the deal for Memphis, making it a 10-point game. Other than that, Brooks had a terrible game on offense.
The heart and soul of the Memphis Grizzlies, Dillon Brooks, has virtually been MIA since recording 24 points in Game 1 vs Minnesota.
Normally a staunch defender, Brooks has been not his usual self in this series. The Timberwolves have far outmatched his energy and drive.
On offense, Brooks has made very questionable shot selections. He took three-point attempts way too early in the shot clock and has been unable to find his stroke.
Brooks finished Game 3 shooting 4 of 14 from the field (1-6 3PT). But that one three-pointer will make fans forget about most of his offensive woes.