The Memphis Grizzlies are the most pleasant surprise in the West this season. They have been playing on a very high level from the beginning of the campaign. The team had to go through a tough period without their superstar, Ja Morant. However, in the end of the day they managed to pull off a sensational start of the season.
The Grizzlies got their fifth win in a row, improving to 24-14 overall. They defeated the Brooklyn Nets in Barclays Center, 104-118, after a fantastic performance from Ja Morant. The 22-year-old point guard finished off with 36 points on a 14-22 shooting from the field. He also added 6 rebounds and 8 assists to his result.
Ja Morant handled business in Brooklyn tonight 💼 pic.twitter.com/JdUpj7aiby
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) January 4, 2022
Desmond Bane continues his progress with yet another incredible night in the NBA. He ended up with 29 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals on 52.2 FG%. Brandon Clarke was also crucial for his team’s victory as he wrapped up the game with 8 successful shots out of 9 attempts.
The inconsistency within the Nets continues as they prolong their losing streak to 3 games. Their defense is their biggest liability, since they rarely hold their opponents under 100 points. On top of that, it seems that Kevin Durant is off his rhythm recently.
Kevin Durant finished off with 26 points on an 8-24 performance for the night. His 25% from the 3-point line is way off his standards. James Harden added just 19 points on 35.7 FG%. Patty Mills had a terrible game against the Grizzlies, ending up with 0 points for almost 30 minutes of playing time.
The Nets are now closer to 4th place than they are to the top, occupied by the Chicago Bulls. The team from New York holds a 23-12 record as they will look to end their losing streak in an away game against the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday.
The Grizzlies have won their fifth consecutive game in the NBA. They are looking strong with 24 wins and 14 losses, sitting in 4th place in the Western Conference. Memphis slowly, but surely slips away from its pursuers including the Mavs, the Nuggets, and the teams from LA. The team will try to further keep their winning streak against the high-flying Cleveland Cavaliers on the road.
