Grizzlies Dominate Trail Blazers Behind Strong Bench Performance in 119-96 Victory

The Memphis Grizzlies showcased a commanding performance on Sunday, defeating the visiting Portland Trail Blazers 119-96 thanks to a balanced offensive effort led by their bench players. Santi Aldama came off the bench to score 22 points, while Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Jaylen Wells each contributed 16 points to bolster Memphis’s attack.

This victory marked the Grizzlies’ fifth win in their last six games and their first instance of consecutive home wins during this season. Memphis’ reserves dominated the scoreboard, tallying 69 points collectively, including notable contributions from Jock Landale with 15 points and eight rebounds and Cam Spencer, who added 12 points and six assists. Starter Zach Edey also posted a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds before fouling out late in the fourth quarter.

Portland struggled offensively, managing fewer than 100 points for only the second time this season and extending their losing streak to five losses in six contests. Jerami Grant led the Trail Blazers with 21 points and seven rebounds, supported by strong all-around efforts from Deni Avdija, who recorded 17 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists, and Shaedon Sharpe with 17 points. Toumani Camara chipped in 13 points and six rebounds.

The Grizzlies dominated early by building a 22-point lead late in the first quarter and stretching it to a 25-point margin early in the second quarter following a three-point play by Caldwell-Pope. Memphis took a comfortable 66-46 lead into halftime, fueled by an impressive 37 points from the bench and a season-high 18 steals.

Portland made a spirited attempt to rally in the third quarter, going on a 16-1 run with key 3-pointers from Grant and Avdija. A Grant free throw trimmed the deficit to four points with 7:32 remaining in the quarter. However, Memphis quelled the momentum and entered the final period leading 92-78.

For the second consecutive game, Jaren Jackson Jr., who averages 17.5 points per game, struggled offensively in the first half, scoring only four points or fewer. He finished with six points on 3-of-10 shooting and provided two blocks in the fourth quarter during his 24 minutes on the court.

Memphis’ ability to withstand Portland’s comeback and capitalize on bench scoring ultimately paved the way for a decisive win as they continue their strong form this season.