Jaren Jackson Jr. delivered a dominant performance with 33 points to lead the Memphis Grizzlies to a 132-124 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday night. The Grizzlies improved to 22-10, while the Pelicans dropped to 5-27, extending their losing streak to nine games.
Ja Morant contributed 25 points before exiting in the third quarter after a collision with Pelicans center Daniel Theis. The hard screen sent Morant to the locker room for evaluation, though he returned to the bench to support his team. The Grizzlies listed him as doubtful for the remainder of the game but did not rule him out entirely.
Jackson’s efforts were complemented by Desmond Bane, who tallied 18 points, and rookie Zach Edey, who added 14 points and nine rebounds. Scottie Pippen Jr. came off the bench with 13 points, while Luke Kennard chipped in nine.
For the Pelicans, Trey Murphy III erupted for 35 points, shooting 5-of-12 from beyond the arc, and CJ McCollum poured in 32. Daniel Theis posted a double-double with 11 points and 11 rebounds. Despite their improved competitiveness after a blowout loss to Houston the previous night, New Orleans failed to contain Memphis’ offensive firepower.
The Grizzlies shot an efficient 47.2% from the field and connected on 17 of 41 three-point attempts (41.5%). Meanwhile, the Pelicans struggled from deep, converting just 28.9% of their three-point attempts (11-of-38).
Memphis built a 22-point lead in the third quarter, but the Pelicans attempted a comeback, cutting the deficit to eight.
The Grizzlies’ offensive rhythm remained intact despite Morant scoring just one point in the second half. This marked their second consecutive high-scoring outing after setting a franchise record with 155 points in their win over Toronto the previous night.
The Pelicans continue to struggle without key players Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson, falling to 0-14 in games without Ingram and 3-23 when Williamson is unavailable.
Memphis capitalized on their depth, with contributions from multiple players across the roster. The bench, led by Pippen Jr., Kennard, and Brandon Clarke, provided critical support as the Grizzlies maintained their offensive pace.
The Pelicans, now losers in 18 of their last 19 games, face a steep uphill battle to regain momentum. Injuries to their star players and inconsistent shooting have been major factors in their slump.
