And The Beat Goes On
Grizzlies center Marc Gasol slams home two points against the Celtics.
Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports
Though they were without starting forward Tony Allen and reserve swingman Quincy Pondexter for the second straight game, due to a virus that also kept 5 other players out of Wednesday’s 96-92 loss at Toronto, the Memphis Grizzlies (11-2) continued their franchise-winning ways at home on Friday night, easily beating the Boston Celtics wire-to-wire, 117-100.
Memphis’ center Marc Gasol, whom matched his career high with 32 points and eight assists for the NBA-best Grizz, led a balanced Memphis attack that also featured four players in double figures – never trailed in the game and was up by as many as 21 points in the fourth quarter.
“A good professional win for our guys tonight,” said Dave Joerger, Grizzlies head coach. “I thought we took care of the basketball well, we executed well, got the ball in the paint – that propelled our offense.”
The short-handed Grizz also got a boost from reserve forward Jon Leuer – scoring a season-high 19 points off the bench in 22 minutes. Leuer was very energetic on the floor as well. Dishing out four assists, diving for loose balls, coming up with timely steals (2) and bringing down seven rebounds.
“We knew we were up against it with all the guys being sick, but that’s what you got to love about these guys,” said Leuer. “That’s the special thing about this team. We rally around each other, bring the energy and get the win tonight.”
Mr. double-double, Zach Randolph, had his usual night – 16 points and 16 rebounds. And starting point guard Mike Conley continued to show why he’s an underrated PG in this league, stewarded his team with a solid 15 points and eight assists – to only one turnover.
“Mike Conley set those guys up so well offensively, that we were able to take advantage of some things,” Joerger said. “He makes the right read almost every time.”
Grizzlies return to the hardwood for a Sunday evening matinee against heated rivals, Los Angeles Clippers. Tipoff is scheduled for 5pm (CT).
