The Grizzlies faced off against the Bulls Monday night and secured their first win over Chicago since 2017. Coming directly off a Sunday night loss against the Pacers, the young bears showed they took a lesson away from that loss. After a dismal defensive performance Sunday night, the Grizzlies turned around and held the Bulls under 100 points on Monday.
Three-point shooting continues to be hit or miss for the Grizzlies, who shot a collective 9 of 28 from beyond the arc. Fortunately for them, the Bulls are even worse at the long ball, shooting 5 of 31. Woof.
In brighter news, the Grizzlies continue to lead the NBA in paint points. In an era where outside shooting is seemingly prized over everything, the Grizzlies will still drag their opponents into the paint and beat them there. Long live the post-up game.
By the Numbers:
Jonas Valanciunas led all scorers with 26 points, 14 rebounds, and 3 blocks. Fun fact: Jonas Valanciunas has totaled 60 points and 36 rebounds while shooting 70.0 percent in the past two games (Pacers and Bulls) in just 66 minutes of playing time. Since the all-star break, JV has led the league in rebounding and second-chance points.
I’m not saying that he’s the most criminally underrated player in the league right now…wait, yes, I am saying that. Fight me.
Dillon Brooks finished with 17 points and 7 rebounds and Grayson Allen closed out with 14 points and 6 rebounds.
Ja Morant had 13 points and 11 assists. Morant might have had a lower than usual offensive production night, but he more than made up for it by setting his teammates up to score.
Don’t worry, he still gave us a highlight play, showing off his dunking prowess.
Morant is one of the most explosive players in the NBA right now, doing things that seem outside the laws of physics. And this is only Year Two.
Who Got Next?
The Grizzlies will face-off against the Dallas Mavericks Wednesday night at home before embarking on a 7-game road trip. The tip-off is at 8:30 PM.