The primary and second halves between the Memphis Grizzlies and Los Angeles Lakers have been drastically totally different. Each groups shot decrease than 40% and neither reached 50 factors in a first-half slugfest.
Impulsively, Ja Morant erupted with a record-breaking third quarter, and Jaren Jackson Jr. threw down a left-handed putback full-extension dunk that despatched the FedExForum crowd into pandemonium.
The Grizzlies fed off of the second-half momentum to defeat the Lakers 121-109 on Tuesday night time.
Memphis (37-23) was led by Morant’s 39 factors regardless of him lacking all 5 of his 3-point makes an attempt. He added 10 rebounds and 10 assists to report a triple-double.
The Lakers (29-33) had a number of turnovers that allowed Memphis to play its most popular up-tempo model, and the Grizzlies took benefit with 33 transition factors and a franchise report 41 factors off of turnovers.
Listed here are some takeaways.
DEVLOPMENT OPPORTUNITY:How Grizzlies’ former first-round decide Ziaire Williams is dealing with NBA G-League project
PREGAME OUTFIT:Dillon Brooks arrives to Grizzlies-Lakers sport with Stone Chilly Steve Austin-inspired look
Lacking Impression gamers
The Lakers and Grizzlies have been each lacking affect starters, and the distinction was noticeable. With out Steven Adams, Memphis acquired a double-double from Xavier Tillman Sr., however Jarred Vanderbilt and Anthony Davis have been lively and aggressive as rebounders. With out LeBron James and D’Angelo Russell, Dillon Brooks guarded Dennis Schroder, and restricted his scoring affect.
It should be the footwear
Morant was struggling to attain within the first half. He shot 3-for-14 and had six factors. After sporting his “Midnight” Ja 1 sneakers within the first half, Morant switched to Ja 1 “scratch” participant exclusives within the second half. The All-Star level guard adopted the shoe change by ending with the highest-scoring quarter in franchise historical past. Morant scored 28 factors within the third quarter on 10-for-12 taking pictures.
Morant’s third-quarter eruption was a part of an enormous body by the Grizzlies. Memphis scored 47 factors within the third quarter after totaling 46 factors within the first half.
Ending the job
A lot has been product of the latest Grizzlies struggles to shut out video games. Somewhat greater than a month in the past, that regarding stretch began after a late-game blown lead in opposition to the Lakers. Memphis took care of enterprise on Tuesday. Morant saved his foot on the pedal late within the fourth, and the Grizzlies’ protection was speaking at a excessive stage whereas forcing turnovers.
What’s subsequent
The Grizzlies have a fast turnaround and can journey to Houston for a Wednesday sport in opposition to the Rockets (7 p.m., Bally Sports activities Southeast). Memphis shall be favorites in opposition to a younger Rockets crew, however Houston has a ton of younger offensive firepower and may have a scorching night time. The Rockets will even be on the second night time of a back-to-back.
This text initially appeared on Memphis Industrial Enchantment: Ja Morant’s record-breaking quarter leads Memphis Grizzlies vs. Lakers
