The Memphis Grizzlies vs the LA Clippers match showcased contrasting halves of dominance, with each team showing flashes of brilliance. While Memphis took control early, the Clippers surged in the second half to seal a decisive 128-108 victory. This article provides a detailed analysis of the Memphis Grizzlies vs LA Clippers match player stats, highlighting individual performances, scoring runs, and tactical adjustments that shaped the outcome.
Memphis Grizzlies vs LA Clippers: Game Recap
The NBA matchup between the Memphis Grizzlies and the LA Clippers delivered a compelling narrative of two halves. Memphis led by six at halftime, but the Clippers responded with a dominant second-half showing, spearheaded by stars like James Harden and Kawhi Leonard. Missing Ja Morant, the Grizzlies struggled to maintain offensive rhythm in the final quarters, while LA’s tactical shift in defense stifled Memphis’ options.
First Half Momentum
The Grizzlies entered the game aggressively from the perimeter and controlled much of the first half. Leading 66-60 at halftime, Memphis looked poised to continue its regular-season dominance over LA. Jaren Jackson Jr. and Santi Aldama combined for 39 points in the first two quarters, with Aldama facilitating effectively with 7 assists. Scotty Pippen Jr., starting in place of Morant, managed 15 points and 5 assists, showing confidence and poise. On the Clippers’ side, James Harden had already made his presence known, racking up 18 points before halftime with aggressive drives and mid-range control.
Second-Half Shift
What followed was a drastic shift in momentum. The Clippers outscored the Grizzlies 36-16 in the third quarter alone, flipping the game on its head. LA’s defense tightened, forcing Memphis into rushed shots and turnovers.
Clippers’ Key Second-Half Contributors:
James Harden: Finished with 30 points, 9 assists, 4 rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 blocks.
Kawhi Leonard: Added 23 points and 10 rebounds, anchoring both ends of the floor.
Ivica Zubac: Notched 17 points, 10 rebounds, and 2 blocks, playing a crucial role in interior defense.
Memphis, on the other hand, managed only 42 second-half points, shooting a dismal 29% from the field during that stretch. Their offense stagnated without Morant, as isolation plays became predictable, allowing LA to collapse the paint.
Memphis Grizzlies vs LA Clippers Match Player Stats
Memphis Grizzlies Player Stats
| Player | PTS | REB | AST | STL | BLK | FG | 3PT | +/- |
| Jaren Jackson Jr. | 23 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 9-24 | 3-9 | -14 |
| Santi Aldama | 16 | 5 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 5-11 | 3-8 | -22 |
| Scotty Pippen Jr. | 15 | 3 | 5 | 2 | 1 | 6-9 | 3-4 | -17 |
| Desmond Bane | 10 | 5 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 3-7 | 2-5 | -26 |
| Zach Edey | 8 | 8 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 3-9 | 0-0 | +6 |
| Luke Kennard | 15 | 2 | 4 | 3 | 0 | 6-9 | 3-5 | -9 |
LA Clippers Player Stats
| Player | PTS | REB | AST | STL | BLK | FG | 3PT | +/- |
| James Harden | 30 | 4 | 9 | 2 | 2 | 8-14 | 0-0 | +24 |
| Kawhi Leonard | 23 | 10 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 9-12 | 1-3 | +16 |
| Ivica Zubac | 17 | 10 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 8-14 | 0-0 | +23 |
| Norman Powell | 14 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 0 | 4-8 | 1-2 | +20 |
| Bogdan Bogdanovic | 16 | 3 | 5 | 1 | 0 | 6-9 | 4-5 | +9 |
Bench Strength & Depth Impact
LA’s bench outperformed Memphis in virtually every category. Norman Powell and Bogdan Bogdanovic added vital scoring and defensive contributions, finishing with a combined 30 points. The Clippers’ second unit, led by efficient shooting and energy, widened the lead and ensured the starters could rest in the fourth.
Conversely, Memphis struggled to get consistent bench output. While Jay Huff chipped in with 13 points, the rest of the second unit had limited impact. Luke Kennard’s 15 points were overshadowed by the Grizzlies’ poor overall floor spacing and ball movement.
Shooting Efficiency
Shooting trends defined the game. The Clippers shot over 53% from the field and 41% from beyond the arc, maintaining disciplined shot selection throughout. The Grizzlies, despite a strong start, ended with 41.7% shooting and only 34% from deep.
Without Morant to drive and kick, Memphis relied heavily on contested threes and mid-range looks. The Clippers capitalized on this by switching screens effectively and forcing low-percentage attempts.
Impact Of Ja Morant’s Absence
Morant’s absence was evident, not only in scoring but in tempo control and offensive creativity. Pippen Jr. showed flashes but lacked the experience to guide the team during LA’s third-quarter run. The Grizzlies could not adjust defensively, often scrambling in transition and allowing the Clippers easy buckets.
Clutch Performers & Defensive Leadership
Kawhi Leonard’s ability to control tempo and Harden’s playmaking under pressure stood out. Defensively, Zubac’s presence in the paint made Memphis hesitant to drive, and Leonard’s leadership ensured tight rotations and limited open looks.
Conclusion
The Memphis Grizzlies vs LA Clippers match player stats highlight a game of shifting tides, star dominance, and strategic execution. LA’s second-half surge, driven by elite play from Harden and Leonard, dismantled Memphis’ early lead. The Grizzlies, missing their franchise star, couldn’t find consistent offense, and their bench failed to keep pace with LA’s depth. As the regular season nears its conclusion, both teams will study these numbers for tactical refinements, but the Clippers’ performance on this night was a masterclass in mid-game adjustments and execution.