Trail Blazers Face Revitalized Grizzlies
The Portland Trail Blazers are set to face the revitalized Memphis Grizzlies at home. As the trade deadline passed, the Blazers chose to retain their core team, focusing on camaraderie to enhance their performance. In contrast, the Grizzlies took bold steps towards a significant rebuild, trading former standout Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Utah Jazz.
Grizzlies’ Transformative Moves
In exchange for Jackson, the Grizzlies acquired rookie guard Walter Clayton Jr. and second-year wing Taylor Hendricks. Additionally, they received veterans Kyle Anderson and Georges Niang, although Niang was quickly waived. This deal also included three first-round draft picks.
Additionally, Memphis’s strategy involved acquiring Eric Gordon, who was later waived, and a second-round pick. These transactions leave the Grizzlies in a unique situation. Their roster resembles a fantasy draft mishap, with star player Ja Morant sidelined since January 24 due to a UCL sprain in his elbow.
Injury Challenges for Memphis
- Ja Morant: Out with UCL sprain
- Zach Edey: Underwent surgery for a stress reaction
- Santi Aldama, Scotty Pippen Jr., Ty Jerome: All out
- Brandon Clarke: Also injured
With these injuries, the team will rely on young players like Cedric Coward, who is averaging 13.6 points on 46% shooting, and All-Rookie Second Team selection Jaylen Wells to carry the load. The Grizzlies’ performance this season has been inconsistent, making their upcoming match against the Blazers unpredictable.
Blazers Seek to End Losing Streak
The Trail Blazers, currently facing a six-game losing streak, made only one minor adjustment by acquiring guard Vit Krejci from the Atlanta Hawks. This transaction involved sending fan-favorite center Duop Reath and two second-round picks in return.
Despite calls from fans for a more significant shake-up, the Blazers’ general manager, Joe Cronin, decided against major changes. Historically, the Blazers have made substantial moves during the summer rather than in-season.
Current Challenges for Portland
Injuries have also plagued the Blazers, with key players like Damian Lillard, Kris Murray, Matisse Thybulle, and Deni Avdija all sidelined. The return of Scoot Henderson brings some optimism, though his minutes might be limited as he eases back into the game. Henderson’s presence should help reduce the team’s high turnover rate, currently leading the league with an average of 17 turnovers per game.
Game Details
The matchup between the Portland Trail Blazers (23-28) and Memphis Grizzlies (20-29) is scheduled for Friday, February 6, at 7 PM Pacific. Fans can catch the game on the Rip City Television Network or stream it through BlazerVision in Oregon and Washington, as well as League Pass or NBA TV elsewhere.
This game presents an opportunity for the Blazers to regain momentum against a newly configured Grizzlies squad. Both teams are embarking on a journey of adjustment as they aim for a better season finish.
