The Memphis Grizzlies will be back in action on Friday night as they face off against the LA Clippers at FedExForum following the NBA All-Star break.
Before the break, Memphis (20-36) managed to secure two consecutive wins against the Rockets and Bucks, both games played at home and considered upsets. Despite various injured players, the Grizzlies are expected to have Jaren Jackson Jr. back on the court after missing the last game against the Bucks. Additionally, Jake LaRavia, who has been out for over a month, is set to make his return on Friday.
Unfortunately, the Grizzlies have faced numerous injury setbacks this season, with players like Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, and Marcus Smart out for an extended period. Morant is sidelined for the season, while Bane and Smart are expected to be out for at least three more weeks.
Despite these challenges, Vince Williams Jr. and GG Jackson have stepped up and played crucial roles in the Grizzlies’ recent wins before the All-Star break.
The LA Clippers (36-18) are coming off a loss to the Thunder on Thursday night after playing in Oklahoma City.
Grizzlies vs. Clippers live score updates
Final Score: Clippers 101, Grizzlies 95
The Grizzlies put up a tough fight until the final minutes, but the Clippers managed to secure the victory with James Harden hitting a crucial 3-pointer to seal the game. Jaren Jackson Jr. led the Grizzlies with 29 points, with support from GG Jackson’s 11 points and Ziaire Williams’ 10.
Grizzlies maintain lead approaching the end
With a slim two-point lead and just over four minutes remaining, the Grizzlies, who were initially considered underdogs by 9.5 points, now have the opportunity to secure another upset victory at FedExForum.
End of third quarter: Clippers 79, Grizzlies 75
Kawhi Leonard extended the Clippers’ lead with a buzzer-beater 3-pointer, reaching 20 points for the night along with seven rebounds and four assists. The Grizzlies are still in contention, needing to focus on defending against Leonard in the final quarter.
Jaren Jackson Jr. leading the charge
Scoring a game-high 21 points, Jackson Jr. has been instrumental in keeping the Grizzlies in the lead for most of the quarter.
Halftime Score: Grizzlies 59, Clippers 53
Bench strength boosts Memphis
GG Jackson’s seven points off the bench and a five-point lead built by the Grizzlies with just over three minutes left in the first half showcase the team’s depth. Lamar Stevens, stepping in as the backup center despite his height disadvantage, has managed four points and five rebounds in seven minutes. Stevens is facing tough matchups against Mason Plumlee and Ivica Zubac at 6-6.
End of first quarter: Grizzlies 29, Clippers 29
Despite the Clippers initially taking the lead, a strong performance from Jaren Jackson Jr. in the first quarter, with 10 points, two rebounds, and two assists, kept the Grizzlies in contention.
Terrance Mann’s early impact for the Clippers
With 10 points scored in under five minutes, Mann made a significant contribution before getting sidelined due to his second foul. The Clippers maintained a 16-14 lead at the first timeout.
Where to watch Grizzlies vs. Clippers today?
- TV: Bally Sports Southeast
- Streaming: Bally Sports app, FUBO (free trial)
Start time for Grizzlies vs. Clippers
- Date: Friday, Feb. 23
- Time: 7 p.m. CT
Betting odds for Grizzlies vs. Clippers
- SPREAD: Clippers -9
- MONEY LINE: Clippers -410, Grizzlies +320
- OVER/UNDER: 221.5