The host Memphis Grizzlies narrowly beat the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday, 101-99.
Memphis (27-20) earned a much-needed win on Wednesday, as it had dropped four of its last six contests heading into the game. The Grizzlies were able to prevail against a tough competitor, however, on the backs of strong play from center Marc Gasol. Gasol scored a career-high 42 points including 19 in the first quarter, and also pulled down seven rebounds. The veteran big man shot 14-of-25 and hit five three-pointers, effectively keeping the team’s shooting afloat while the remainder of the roster had somewhat of an off night. Memphis also caught a bit of a break at the free-throw line, where Toronto made just 11-of-19 on the night.
Toronto (28-18) has now lost five straight and is just half of a game ahead of Boston for second in the Eastern Conference. Part of the team’s struggles has been the absence of star guard DeMar DeRozan (ankle), who missed action again on Wednesday. Guard Norman Powell provided stellar offense in his stead, scoring 21 points with five rebounds. Point guard Kyle Lowry led the team, scoring 29 and dishing eight assists. The team struggled to find its shot, however, hitting just 42 percent on the night. Containing Marc Gasol proved difficult for the Raptors as well, particularly out of the break. The team gave up two Gasol-led scoring runs at the start of each half.
Toronto will host the Bucks on Friday, while the Grizzlies will visit Portland.
