Grizzlies Defeat Pelicans: Game Recap & Insights (Dec 27, 2024)

In a thrilling Western Conference showdown on December 27, 2024, the Memphis Grizzlies triumphed over the New Orleans Pelicans with a score of 132-124. This game featured standout performances, injuries, and showcased the contrasting realities of both teams in the current NBA season.

Game Highlights

Key Players

Jaren Jackson Jr. led the Grizzlies with an impressive 33 points, demonstrating his capability as a crucial player for Memphis. Ja Morant contributed 25 points before leaving the game due to a minor right shoulder injury sustained from a challenging screen by Pelicans' center Daniel Theis. Despite the injury, Morant rallied with his teammates from the bench, underscoring the team’s resilience.

Supporting Jackson, Desmond Bane chipped in with 18 points, while Scottie Pippen Jr. and Zach Edey added 13 and 14 points, respectively.

On the Pelicans' side, Trey Murphy III shined with 35 points and CJ McCollum added 32 points. However, their combined efforts weren't enough to halt New Orleans' losing streak, which extended to nine games.

Game Flow

The Grizzlies controlled the game early, establishing a significant lead. A crucial moment occurred during the third quarter when the Pelicans threatened to narrow the score. Jackson's interception of a pass from Murphy prevented what could have been a pivotal shift, sparking an 8-0 run by Memphis that included a driving floater by Jackson and a three-point shot from Luke Kennard.

In terms of shooting proficiency, Memphis excelled with a 41.5% success rate (17 of 41) from beyond the arc, compared to New Orleans' 28.9% (11 of 38).

Injury Updates

The injury to Ja Morant is a concern moving forward. He was classified as doubtful after his mid-game examination, but at the time of writing, the Grizzlies had not ruled him out for future games. This precaution leaves fans and analysts speculating on his status for the pivotal matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder upcoming on Sunday.

Injuries have plagued the Pelicans as well, with their performance dipping further without key player Brandon Ingram and power forward Zion Williamson. Their absence has greatly affected the team’s ability to compete effectively, emphasizing how injuries can shape a season's trajectory.

Performance Analysis

Both teams faced back-to-back games resulting in fatigue, but the depth of Memphis seemed to provide them with the edge needed to secure another victory. Memphis improved their conference standing to 21-10, holding third place in the West, while New Orleans languished at the bottom with a dismal 5-26 record.

The Pelicans demonstrated a fighting spirit but ultimately lacked the firepower to match the Grizzlies. Their hopes to reverse the course of their season might hinge on recovery and strategic adjustments before their next match against the Los Angeles Clippers on Monday night.

Upcoming Matches

• Memphis Grizzlies vs. Oklahoma City Thunder: Sunday, Dec 29
• New Orleans Pelicans vs. Los Angeles Clippers: Monday, Dec 30

Conclusion

The Memphis Grizzlies continue to display resilience and depth in their roster, while the New Orleans Pelicans must find ways to overcome their injury woes. With the playoff picture starting to take shape, every game matters, making the upcoming matchups crucial for both teams.

Stay tuned as the NBA season progresses, and keep an eye on the injury report and team developments that could affect future games.