Marcus Smart delivered his best offensive performance of the season, scoring 25 points and draining seven three-pointers to lead the Memphis Grizzlies to a dominant 131-111 victory over the Detroit Pistons.
The win marks Memphis’ fourth consecutive victory, as they capitalized on a depleted Detroit lineup to keep their momentum rolling.
Smart was unstoppable from deep, shooting 7 of 11 beyond the arc, while his efficient 8 of 12 from the field energized a Grizzlies offense that overwhelmed the Pistons. Scotty Pippen Jr. and Jake LaRavia also stepped up with 19 points each, as Memphis showcased its depth in the blowout win.
Grizzlies Flex Offensive Power
Memphis, known for their dominance in the paint, complemented their interior scoring with a long-range barrage. Despite missing their first nine three-point attempts, the Grizzlies found their rhythm, hitting 14 of their next 29 from deep. Their 72 points from the bench highlighted the team’s depth, while their signature physicality in the paint resulted in 60 points near the rim.
Scotty Pippen Jr. added seven rebounds to his 19-point outing, going an efficient 9 of 12 from the field. Jake LaRavia missed just one of his nine shots, underscoring Memphis’ sharp shooting performance on a night when they shot 54% overall.
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Pistons Struggle Without Key Players
Detroit, already without Cade Cunningham for the third straight game due to a sacroiliac joint sprain, felt the absence of Tobias Harris as well. The two players combine to average over 37 points per game, leaving the Pistons searching for answers offensively. Marcus Sasser led the charge with 22 points, while Simone Fontecchio added 18. Jaden Ivey chipped in 17, but it wasn’t enough to keep pace with Memphis.
Second-year forward Ausar Thompson started in Harris’ place, continuing his return from a blood clot issue that had sidelined him for most of the season. However, the Pistons’ limited depth and poor shooting stretches left them overmatched.
Key Second-Quarter Surge
The game’s turning point came in the second quarter, where Memphis went on a blistering 31-7 run to outscore Detroit 37-18 in the period. The Grizzlies shot a sizzling 59% from the field during the quarter, while the Pistons managed just 36%. By halftime, Memphis had seized control, and the Pistons never recovered.
Smart’s Leadership and Hot Shooting
Marcus Smart not only led Memphis with his season-high 25 points but also provided a steady hand as a playmaker and defender. His seven triples were a testament to his confidence and ability to step up in big moments, especially with Ja Morant sidelined due to a left knee contusion.
The Grizzlies’ offensive explosion in the second quarter and sustained momentum into the third allowed them to stretch their lead to 27 points heading into the final frame.
Key Stats and Highlights
- Shooting Turnaround: After missing their first nine three-point attempts, the Grizzlies went on a tear, shooting 48% from deep for the game.
- Malik Beasley Streak Ends: Detroit’s Malik Beasley, who had hit three or more triples in 10 consecutive games, was held to just two three-pointers on the night.
- Bench Production: Memphis’ bench contributed a staggering 72 points, further showcasing their depth.
Takeaways
- Grizzlies: Memphis continues to solidify its identity as a dominant paint-scoring team while demonstrating versatility with their improved three-point shooting. Their ability to weather the absence of Morant bodes well for the team moving forward.
- Pistons: Detroit’s offensive struggles without Cunningham and Harris highlight their reliance on their stars. With limited bench contributions, the Pistons face an uphill battle in staying competitive against stronger teams.
Up Next
The Pistons will look to bounce back when they visit the Indiana Pacers on Friday. Meanwhile, the Grizzlies will aim to extend their winning streak as they host the New Orleans Pelicans the same day.
Memphis is proving to be a team that can adapt and thrive, even amidst injuries, as Smart and their deep roster continue to make statements across the league.