Memphis looses vs pelicans 96-87 in a low scoring game

In an NBA matchup on Monday night, the New Orleans Pelicans secured a win over the Memphis Grizzlies with a final score of 96-87. Leading the charge for the Pelicans was Herbert Jones, who put up an impressive 17 points. Brandon Ingram also contributed to the victory with 16 points, including two clutch baskets towards the end of the game. Zion Williamson added 14 points, and CJ McCollum chipped in with 11. Jones also showed his prowess on the boards, grabbing nine rebounds and helping the Pelicans outrebound the Grizzlies 49-37.

Despite a depleted roster, the Grizzlies put up a good fight and kept the game close. Jaren Jackson Jr. led the Grizzlies with 22 points, while Vince Williams Jr. and Luke Kennard finished with 12 points apiece. Williams also had a strong showing in assists, dishing out nine to his teammates. Yuta Watanabe also had a notable performance, contributing 11 points and keying a fourth-quarter push by the Grizzlies.

The Pelicans seemed to have the upper hand for most of the game, with a 14-point lead at halftime that stretched to 25 in the third period. However, Memphis fought back with a 25-7 rally spanning the third and fourth quarters, making the game a bit tighter. By midway through the fourth quarter, the Pelicans’ lead had dropped to just seven points. Memphis eventually got within five points of tying the game, but the Pelicans’ defense held strong and secured the win.

Pelicans coach Willie Green praised the Grizzlies’ fight, saying “They fought us for 48 minutes. We didn’t start well, then we got it going. Came out in the third quarter and we’re playing well, then the wheels fell off.” He was also pleased with his team’s ability to hold on for the victory, saying “We found a way at the end to win the game, and that’s the important part.”

The game was not without its setbacks for the Pelicans, who learned on Monday that Dyson Daniels suffered a meniscus tear in his left knee that will keep him out of action for an extended period. However, the team’s reserves stepped up and helped turn a close game into a double-digit lead in the first half. A 21-8 run to close out the second quarter gave New Orleans a 61-47 lead at halftime.

As the Grizzlies continue to deal with injuries and a depleted roster, several players are getting a chance to showcase their talents. Players like Yuta Watanabe and Lamar Stevens, who was also a trade-deadline swap with the Boston Celtics, are getting more playing time and making the most of their opportunities. Memphis coach Taylor Jenkins was impressed with his lineup, saying “Those guys gave us a huge spark, and the second half was great.”