Slightly better than .500, but a lot better than last season. That’s been your Grizzlies this year, and that’s how things went last week: 3-2.

The Bizzaro run of home losses and road wins is over, and although math still says the Grizzlies CAN make the playoffs, conventional wisdom, and coach Lionel Hollins, points to the Grizzlies just coming up short (because what does math know anyway?).

Saturday, March 13: Nuggets 125, Grizzlies 108
Just like in their previous game against the Knicks, the Grizzlies laid a big fat egg in the fourth quarter of this one. Unlike that game, the egg resulted in Memphis blowing a 12 point halftime lead to lose by 17.

J.R. Smith lead the Denver charge in a fourth quarter which saw the Nuggets outscore the Grizzlies 40-23. Smith was 11-16 from the field including 7-10 from three-point range and finished with 30 points.

Worst thing about this game? Chris Anderson. The excessively tattooed (and for this game mustachioed) Denver center is usually more famous for his obnoxious hair rather than his play, but he and Nuggets starting center Nene beat the Grizzlies at their own game, dominating the pain inside.

That’s not a typo. In addition to the embarrassing dunks and open lanes created and taken advantage of by the Denver big men, Chris Andersen came down butt first on Marc Gasol’s neck while grabbing a rebound in the third quarter. Gasol finished the game but hasn’t played since, subjecting Grizzlies fans to a string of starts from Hasheem Thabeet. More on Thabeet later.

Tuesday, March 16: Grizzlies beat some guys wearing Bulls jerseys, 104-97

O.J. Mayo scores on some guys the Bulls picked up at the park on Tillman before the game.
Chicago was missing four players for the game.
Photo by Chase Gustafson

For the Grizzlies, there wasn’t a better time for Hasheem Thabeet’s first start than against a Bulls team missing four key players. Derrick Rose, Luol Deng and Joakim Noah all missed the game with injuries and Kirk Hinrich was still serving his league suspension for attending the University of Kansas ^{[citation needed]}.

While the Grizzlies were without Gasol, guard Ronnie Brewer returned to the lineup. Brewer had not played since injuring his hamstring in his first game with the Grizzlies after being traded from the Utah Jazz.

The Grizzlies fourth quarter woes continued in this one, as they were outscored 30-19 in the final period after leading by as much as 25 in the third. The trend wasn’t lost on the team.

“We build a good lead then seem to get lackadaisical sometimes,” guard Mike Conley said after the game. “It’s definitely something we have to improve on.”

Conley himself played well, scoring 19 and racking up 10 assists. Despite an off night against the Nuggets (only 6 points) Conley’s numbers have been up significantly in March.

Oh and Thabeet? He was pretty respectable in his first NBA start, matching his career highs in points and rebounds with 10 and 9 respectively. Coach Lionel Hollins praised the oft-maligned lottery pick after the game, but recognized that Thabeet still has a long way to go, particularly on offense where he still shies away from baskets.

“He’s different in that regard,” Hollins said. “When I see a deuce I’m going for it.”

Another highlight from this game was the improved demeanor of Hollins in his post game press conference. See the colorful quote above? That was just the start. When asked about his rationale for using a unique fourth quarter lineup which featured both Marcus Williams and Mike Conley, Hollins replied with a thoughtful answer concerning the advantages of having two ball handlers on the court in full court press situation.

Compare that to previous blowups about Mike Conely, describing the concurrent home losing and road winning streaks as “We’re playing better on the road than we are at home,” and the last answer to a matchup question, “Because I wanted to,” and blowups at people other than this reporter (after the first Houston game at home and the second Laker game), and there’s a BIG improvement.

Wednesday, March 17: Grizzlies fall to Rockets 107-94
Hard evidence that the Bizarro run has ended. The Grizzlies could not keep up with their nemesis, the Houston Rockets, dropping their third matchup against the team this season.

It had all the elements to predict a Grizzlies loss. Second night of a back-to-back, on the road against a team the Grizzlies just haven’t been able to figure out. During the Bizzaro run, this inexplicably would have resulted in a win. Not so in Houston.

Even a 30 point night from Zach Randolph wasn’t enough for the Grizzlies, partially because Aaron Brooks pulled a J.R. Smith (see above) and was perfect from long range - en route to a 31 point night.

Thabeet contributed again, with 8 points and 10 rebounds, but the rest of the team had an off night. O.J. Mayo only finished with 4 points on 1-6 shooting from the floor.

The Rockets win moved them past the Grizzlies into the ninth spot in the west, but while Houston is adept at beating Memphis, they aren’t so lucky with other teams. The Grizzlies would regain the ninth spot after two more games.

Saturday, March 20: Grizzlies overpower the Warriors 123 – 107

Randolph probably could have taken on Golden State by himself.
Photo by JD Meredith

The night after dropping 147 points to the Mavericks in regulation, the Warriors continued serving as a doormat to the Grizzlies, who outplayed Golden State in the very style the Warriors are used to running.

Darrell Arthur had his best game of the season despite his alma matter, the Kansas Jayhawks, losing to ninth seeded Northern Iowa in the NCAA tournament just moments before tipoff.

“I was sad,” Arthur said of the loss, “but I couldn’t let it affect me. Just had to stay focused.”

Arthur finished the game with a season high 16 points and 13 rebounds.

Zach Randolph finished with 20 points and 13 rebounds, nothing new to one of the NBA’s most consistent 20-10 players this season, but the night was special as it put Randolph just seven rebounds shy of the Grizzlies single season franchise record.

Lionel Hollins continued his improvement in dealing with the press, even staying polite to a group of student reporters who attended the press conference as part of the Don Poier annual journalism scholarship.

Hollins had already described how he felt about any playoff talk surrounding his team (“What playoff talk?”) when one of the students asked him the same question.

“You weren’t listening,” Hollins said. The room paused, waiting for a signature Hollins moment that talk radio hosts would repeat for weeks. But that was the old Lionel. The new Lionel is different. “That’s ok, you were writing," Hollins continued. "I’ll cut you a break because you were writing.”

Hollins proceeded to repeat the answer. It wasn’t word for word, but the meaning was the same – probably not going to happen, but it’s still been a good season for the team.

Yes. For the team and for Coach Hollins, who needs a new award created to be given to him at the end of the season - “Most Improved in Dealing with the Media.”

Monday, March 22: Grizzlies blow past Kings 102 – 85
Randolph broke the rebounding mark, and the Grizzlies showed a rare second half surge as they soundly beat the Kings last night in Sacramento. O.J. Mayo caught fire in the second half after shooting dismally for the first two quarters, scoring 10 points in less than 2 minutes and putting the Grizzlies ahead for good.

The Kings were without former University of Memphis star and rookie of the year favorite Tyreke Evans, who missed the game with an injury worthy of the NHL (mild concussion, bruised jaw, lacerated gums and chipped tooth).

Hasheem Thabeet and Mike Conley both reached double digits scoring in this one, notching 10 and 12 points respectively.

Final Shots
The Grizzlies are currently in the ninth spot in the Western Conference, four games behind Portland and five games behind San Antonio and Oklahoma City, who are tied for seventh. Of those teams, only Oklahoma City has shown signs of weakness down the stretch, as they have lost their last two games.

Memphis plays next tomorrow, March 24 at Golden State followed by a matinee road game at Milwaukee on March 28. The Grizzlies will not return to FedExForum until after the conclusion of the NCAA Women’s tournament. The next home game is March 31 against Dallas.

You can follow @douggillon on twitter for live updates and insight during the games.

So is the Bizzaro run over? Maybe. At least the agonizing home defeats are. Last night the Grizzlies used solid production from their bench and the terrible play of the New Jersey Nets to end an eight game losing streak at home and finally hear Rick Trotter yell “Grizzlies Win!” as the confetti fell for at FedExForum for the first time since Feb. 1.

It wasn’t exactly pretty…
The Grizzlies third quarter woes continued in this one, as they were outscored 26 to 14 there. Despite the miserable quarter, the Grizzlies never trailed after the first, as they had built a 20 point lead in the second quarter, and went into the half up 16. The closest the Nets got was two points.

Coach Hollins said after the game that the lackadaisical play in the third quarter was perhaps his team not realizing how important it was for them to snap their losing streak at home, but was happy with the win.

No Z-Bo, no problem?
Well not exactly. While the Grizzlies rebounding numbers were still ok (52 compared to 45 from the Nets), Grizzlies big men Marc Gasol and Hamed Haddadi were stretched defensively, picking up fouls more quickly than usual without Randolph to help on the defensive end. Gasol and Haddadi both finished with 5 fouls.

The team did not discuss Randolph’s absence before the game, staying focused on playing with who they had. Hollins said the real detriment to having Randolph out was missing “that dominant post player who always draws a double-team,” but added that they were still able to win because of the bench players stepping up.

Big Night for the Bench
When asked about how Randolph’s absence affected their game, center Marc Gasol looked irritated.

“We’ve got a lot of good guys here,” he said. “We’ve got enough good guys that we should be able to win without him for a few games.”

At least last night he was right. Sam Young continued his solid production with 10 points, Marcus Wliams had 8, Hamed Haddadi added 3 points and 2 rebounds, and Darrell Arthur had 7 points and 3 rebounds in his first start of the season. The bench star of the night however, was DaMarre Carroll, who finished with a season high 10 points, 8 rebounds and 3 steals.

Benefiting from a small New Jersey lineup that allowed Hollins to play him at power forward rather than small forward, Carroll got most of his points the same way he did in college, from offensive rebounds and putbacks, but he even added a jump shot for the first time in a while. Carroll clocked 24 minutes and almost hit his first NBA double-double.

Carroll had not been playing much in February or March, and saw Randolph’s absence as an opportunity.

“I’ve just been sitting at the end of the bench, patiently waiting, lifting weights and coming in at night to get in extra shots, and tonight I just tried to come out and stay true to myself,” Carroll said.

But Carroll also said that Lionel Hollins gets on him more than any other rookie, which is odd considering Carroll wasn’t demoted to the d-league.

You had to be there
The crowd was tiny - announced at over 10,000 but appeared to be about half that in reality. First signs of life from the crowd came when Tiger favorite Chris Douglas-Roberts checked in. The crowd responded with a big applause even before Grizzlies announcer Rick Trotter said his name.

Really he should just add the Chris to make a complete circle.
Photo by Chase Gustafson

Although small, the crowd was excited the entire game, cheering loudly during the first half, booing even louder during the third quarter, and enjoying the win at the end. They even paid enough attention to boo a botched game of Grizzlies Tic-Tac-Toe during a timeout in the second.

Dunk of the Game
There were a bunch in this one, especially in the first half. Rudy Gay, Marc Gasol and O.J. Mayo kept in simple with their dunks, preferring to just get the ball in the basket, rather than show off (which is probably good when you’re on an eight game losing streak). His dunks still looked good, but we’ll have to give this one to DaMarre Carroll, who found a wide open back door late in the fourth and pounded home a two handed jam to put the Grizzlies one point shy of 100 and essentially put the game out of reach for the Nets.
Dunk Count: 5, Carroll - 1 Gay – 1, Gasol -2, Mayo -1,

Twitter Watch
Hasheem Thabeet
GoodMornin Wonderful World!!!!! I’m Back.. Ya’ll Have a nice and Blessed Day!!!

Rudy Gay
No disrespect to Hurt Locker! But Avatar was the greatest of all time! (Kanye shrug) lol

Grizz
Well it’s the end of my b day weekend, thx to all my furry homies for coming out and hangin with me. Best b day game yet!!

Final Shots
Hasheem Thabeet was back in Memphis after being recalled from the D-League (See tweet above). He sported a new, shorter haircut and sat the bench. New Jersey guards Courtney Lee and Devin Harris lit up the Grizzlies for a combined 58 points. Games are much more comfortable without Ronald McDonald ruining Black History Month. The Grizz should keep honoring players through March without the clown just to make up for February.

The Grizzlies next game is on the road at Boston Tomorrow at 6:30 pm. You can follow @douggillon and @cerrito for tweets during the games, or come watch the game with the entire Memphis Sport crew and rapper Teflon Don tomorrow night at the Poplar Lounge.

Hasheem Thabeet left and the dominant Z-Bo came back. The end of February saw the Grizzlies trucking along in a way Memphis fans had unfortunately come to expect, losing at home. The unforeseen events of the past two weeks have been the Grizzlies success on the road, where the Blue Bears have now won a franchise record six games in a row when away from FedExForum. That and the Grizzlies playoffs hopes are still alive, if only slightly. Even though the team has improved significantly since last year, anything less than a playoff berth will, at this point, be a disappointment. Whether or not the team makes it there starts Saturday at home against San Antonio. If the Grizzlies are to make it, they will need to continue their success on the road and greatly improve their play at home in the final two months of the season. 

Wednesday, February 24: Grizzlies win in Washington, 99-94
This was the first of several hard-fought road wins that kept the Grizzlies from dipping below .500. Despite a weak first half, O.J. Mayo finished with another strong game while Z-Bo, Rudy Gay and Marc Gasol all added 20+ points in the Grizzlies winning road effort.

This was another example of the Bizzaro Grizzlies of February. The second game of a back-to-back, on the road was usually a surefire loss for the team that Memphis had gotten used to in the dog days of winter. Now, for the second time in a row, it was a win. 

Thursday, February 25: Grizzlies demote Hasheem Thabeet and Lester Hudson to d-league affiliate:
This wasn’t much of a surprise, and had been rumored for weeks. Even if you weren’t aware of the behind the scenes talk, Coach Hollins switch to Hamed Haddadi, as the go-to back up center and the fact that Thabeet hadn’t played more than 2 minutes in weeks should have been an easy clue. Thabeet’s demotion makes him the highest draft pick to ever get demoted within his first season. Does that make him the biggest bust ever? See what we had to say about it.

Friday, February 26: Grizzlies drop back to .500, lose to Charlotte at home

Basketball as interpreted by Larry Brown - ugly. Photo by Chase Gustafson.

This was embarrassing on almost any level. The Grizzlies lost their sixth straight at home, and their first all year to a team below .500. And it was ugly. The Bobcat’s defense first, Larry Brown style was all over the game, resulting in a low scoring game in which the Grizzlies shot better percentage-wise than in previous losses at home, but the game was so riddled with turnovers and slow possessions that the Grizzlies had trouble scoring any points. Z-Bo still clocked in a monster game with 24 and 10, but he and the Grizz couldn’t stop Stephen Jackson, who finished with 32

Again, by all accounts this game should have been a win for the Grizzlies. They were playing at home against a team they lost to on a buzzer tip in. The Bobcats had lost three straight and were on the end of a long road trip. But Bizzaro Grizz never win the games everyone thinks they will.

Biggest upside to the loss was Lionel Hollins improved demeanor in the post-game press conference. When asked why the Grizzlies allowed Charlotte to run a possession at the end of the game rather than fouling, Hollins was forthright and direct about his decision, and felt that the team still got the time and possessions he wanted, just were unable to convert the shots. 

Saturday, February 27: Grizzlies beat up the Knicks in the Garden
Again, the second night of a back-to-back, on the road. Crummy eastern conference team or not, this was supposed to spell L-O-S-S for the Grizzlies. But it didn’t.

The Grizzlies out muscled and overpowered the Knicks for a big win, and again just avoided dipping below .500. Z-Bo had another monster game, putting up 31 points and a ridiculous 25 rebounds. The Bizzaro run continued, but February was almost over. The Grizzlies were coming back – maybe... 

Monday, March 1: Grizzlies drop must-win again Blazers at home

The Blazers would not admit who their Haddadi was. Photo by Chase Gustafson.

Z-Bo hated this one as much or more than the Grizzlies fans. Down 3.5 games to the Blazers in the playoff hunt going into the game, it was a huge matchup for the Grizzlies. A win would have given them a 3-1 advantage in the season series, setting them up well for any situation in which the team’s tied for a playoff spot. Randolph was playing against another former team and wanted to give them the same thing he had given the Knicks earlier in the week.

Not so. The Blazers overcame a double-digit deficit with a 41 point fourth quarter to get the win.

Again the Grizzlies were playing at home against a team they could beat. Again that team was at the end of a long road trip. Again the Grizzlies couldn’t get the win.

Hollins continued his new trend of being nice after games… sort of. When asked why the team was lately getting wins on the road but unable to find them at home the coach responded, “We’re playing better on the road than we are at home.” Thanks for the insight Lionel. 

Wednesday, March 3: Grizzlies survive another third quarter scare, drop the Hornets in New Orleans
If you watched this and weren’t yelling Z-Boooooooooo! afterwards, then you must not like basketball. Mike Conley was the statistical hero, scoring a season-high 26 points in his revenge matchup against Darren Collison, but Zach Randolph’s bank-in three, made as the shot clock expired in the fourth quarter was the memorable play of the night.

Again the Grizzlies came off a tough home loss to win on the road and stay above .500. The next game was the next day, a full road trip back-to-back against another eastern team. I think at this point you can see where this is going… 

Thursday, March 4: Z-Bo dominates as Grizzlies drop Bulls in Chicago
Two games above .500 just took two road games – back-to-back. Makes sense right? It does for the Bizzaro Grizz.

And in true Bizzaro Grizz fashion, Memphis had to overcome a big first-half deficit to win (Bizzaro Grizz are better at losing after big first half leads).

Oh and Z-Bo? He scored 31 and had 18 boards, but his most memorable play of the night was getting dunked on by Derrick Rose. Hey – it’s Bizarro Grizz.

The back-to-back wins and particularly the win against New Orleans has the Grizzlies back up in the ninth spot in the west, one spot out of the playoffs. The aforementioned Blazers still hold the 8^th spot, 4 games ahead of the Grizzlies.

The Grizzlies play the San Antonio Spurs Saturday night at FedExForum. We’ll see whether the February team or the January team shows up then.

 

 

 

 

 

Five straight losses – three at home. 1-7 over the last eight games. It was less than a month ago that Memphis fans were reveling in the glory of their home team which was unbeatable at home and a scary matchup on the road. Fans were flocking to FedExForum, the Grizzlies were getting national recognition, and the playoffs seemed a sure thing. Now they are treated to old school Grizzlies basketball, with eyes already starting to turn towards the college game and the draft.

Last night it was easy mistakes – missed layups and free throws, slopping positioning, lack of cohesiveness – that doomed the Grizzlies. This time it wasn’t lack of rest (the team had an entire week off for the all-star break) according to the coach it was rust.

Case of the Missing Layup
Or free throw, depending on the time of the game. It was one of the worst shooting performances of the season from the team, who shot a dismal 35.6% from the floor. The Grizzlies missed easy shots all night, with Mike Conley and Marc Gasol being the worst offenders (3-12 and 4-12 from the floor). Despite posting a double-double, Gasol was particularly off last night, also missing eight free throws, a strange night for the 71% career free throw shooter.

Super Sam
Sam Young was one of the lone bright spots for the Grizzlies (that’s excluding Zach Randolph, who put in his work with a solid 18-15 game) scoring 15 off the bench and making two three-point shots in three attempts. Young and Lester Hudson have been the Grizzlies only scoring options off the bench this season, with Young being the more consistent of the two.

Support WHAT movement?
Just before the Grizzlies went to training camp in Alabama, Rudy Gay and O.J. Mayo held a joint press conference to talk about the upcoming season. Both players talked about how hard they had been working in the offseason, often being the only two players in the gym. Halfway through this year, that work paid off. Mayo and Gay played vastly improved games while Marc Gasol continued to mature and Zach Randolph came in as the missing link. Then the team hit 25 wins.

It was one more win than the entire previous year, with more than 30 games left to play. The Grizzlies were six games above .500 – set up for a playoff spot if they maintained their pace. The whole town was thinking it and the Memphis Flyer put it on the cover, “Look! They Might Be Good!”

Yeah… go ahead and bring that back in. The start of the second half of the NBA season has treated the Grizzlies much like the first: 1-7. Coach Hollins is quick to dispute words like “unmotivated,” but when the team drops off this drastically, it’s hard to think that a lack of focus isn’t a factor.  Hollins admitted to “rust” affecting his players, and lamented that over the five day break there were “some guys that didn’t do anything.” No shoot around. No working out. No practice. Time off. “That’s unfortunate,” he said, “but that’s the way it goes.”

Not really. Not if Hollins goal is to “get respect around the league” as he told us last week. To accomplish that – to get into the playoffs, to win a playoff game, to be an elite team in professional sports, “that’s the way it goes” can’t ever be part of the equation. Even in Hollins voice – in the way he answers questions, the coach’s attitude shows a lack of fire. When asked the reason for a recent rotation change Hollins replied, “Because I wanted to,” and only went into rationale for the strategy of the decision when further pushed.

After spending the first half of the season pushing to break .500, then doing it, then exceeding it, Hollins and his team will have to regroup like they did after Allen Iverson left if they want this to be a season to remember, rather than a streak to remember.

You Had to Be There
The announced crowd of 11,508 was small but lively, bringing some excitement back into the forum after two dismal showings from the spectators in the Atlanta and Houston games.

A welcome addition was the group of guys in section 220, who brought their own flavor of rowdy to the contest, chanting "U-S-A!" at Steve Nash, and "Trade Bait" at A'mare Stoudamire. Also notable was Grizz coming out in an Olympic Uniform and giving flowers to Steve Nash.

Dunk of the Game
Nothing special last night. Just two and a block. Marc Gasol slammed in two equally forgettable dunks, on in the third and one in the fourth. The first came as the game was slipping away and the second after the game was out of reach. Rudy Gay had his only dunk attempt blocked in the first quarter. On a night when the team can’t even make layups though, it would be hard to expect much in this area.
Dunk Count: Gasol – 2

Twitter Watch

Rudy Gay
I got a random question. Who is my youngest follower? 10:58 Feb 16
I gotta watch what I say! 11:04 Feb 16

Hasheem Thabeet
Go Hash Its Ur BDAY… LOL Mane Thank God I’m Able to See Another Day!! It’s a Blessing To Be ME!! & i’m Grateful about this! Sagga Continues!

Sam Young
who knows how to work the skype

Final Shots
The NBA trade deadline is tomorrow at 2pm Central. So far the Grizzlies have not leaked or shown anything (despite the normal talk of considering several possible scenarios) that would lead us to think a trade is coming despite rampant speculation around town and the recent losing streak. If a trade were to occur it would likely be for Sergio Rodriguez of the Kings, Chris Douglas-Roberts of the Nets or Ronnie Brewer of the Utah Jazz. The trade that could have helped the Grizzlies the most last night, Phoenix dealing A’mare Stoudamire, didn’t happen, and the Grizzlies paid for it. Their recent losing streak has put them back in last place in the Southwest Division and four games out of the last playoff spot. That final spot is currently occupied by Portland, who just acquired Marcus Camby in a trade with the Clippers. Ronald McDonald is still coming out with the Black History Month honoree, but something even stranger is how he sits it the tunnel, in full costume, just relaxing, until the honoree is introduced. Zach Randolph became the first Grizzly to score in an NBA all-star game over the weekend.

The Grizzlies play the Toronto Raptors tonight at 6pm. Follow @douggillon or MSL editor @cerrito on Twitter for live updates and thoughts during games.

UPDATE: Trade rumours circling today include having the Grizzlies acquire Spurs shooter Roger Mason. ESPN.com reports that the Grizzlies have also put Mike Conley on the trading block.

If Lionel Hollins word is any indication, Grizzlies fans shouldn’t get too excited thinking about the postseason just yet. After another embarrassing home loss to the Atlanta Hawks last night, the Grizzlies enter the all-star break with a four game losing streak and a 1-4 record in February. Lakers win aside – February has been as bad to the Grizzlies as December and January were good.

While the second year coach admitted fatigue and matchup problems have been part of the recent skid, he also made a point to say that the team had “overachieved” during the 11 game home win streak that took the team above .500 and had many fans and Memphians expecting a playoff berth, and hoping to finally seal that playoff win.

Not so fast, says Hollins. “I’m excited about where we are at 26 and 25 versus where we were when I took over this team last year, and I’d like to keep that in perspective as we go forward. We’re a team that’s trying to overachieve and that’s trying to get some respect around the league, and we’ll continue to do that the second half of the seaon.”

They even let Z-Bo down…
The announced crowd of just over 10,400 was the lowest in months, despite Zach Randolph giving away 500 tickets to the game earlier in the day. In the early days of the Grizzlies 11 game home win streak, even a small crowd of about 11,000 could get loud and make the place hop a little bit (hell even the 1-2K that came back for the end of the water main game had some fire) but last night’s crowd had about as much life as a chia pet. It was the same story last week against Houston, even though that crowd was significantly larger. Interest from both the team and the fans seems to have waned following the win over Los Angeles.

Smaller, Faster, Stronger
Much like the loss to Houston, the Grizzlies found themselves outmuscled and outrun by a smaller, quicker, deeper team that got hot beyond the arc. The two teams are very similar in their lineups, style of play, and the fact that they have both destroyed the Grizzlies twice this season.

Time for a Trade?
Hollins and the Grizzlies wouldn’t say anything about a potential trade coming up before the February 18 trade deadline, but didn’t rule out a potential trade either. So there’s that.

But with Jamal Crawford’s 28 points off the bench outdoing the entire host of Grizzlies backups, talk of the Grizzlies needing to find a bench scorer continued.

Eventually Hollins said that he wants to see dramatic improvement from his younger players, and that if a trade does not happen, that will be key to a strong second half of the season.

“That’s life. Sometimes it’s like poker,” Hollins said. “You get a hand you gotta play it.”

You Had to Be There
But you weren’t. And it showed. Work on that.

Dunk of the Game
Dunks were a redeeming factor in this one.

There was a lot of this, but mostly from the Hawks.
Photo by Chase Gustafson

Atlanta was on the verge of attempting 3-point dunks, and although Rudy Gay can’t quite jump like Josh Smith, the Grizzlies still did post a few nice dunks, with the slam of the night being a flying one-hander from Rudy Gay.
Dunk Count: Gasol – 1 Gay – 1; Hawks – 4

Twitter Watch
I’ll spare you the details, but twitter watching indicates Rudy Gay, Mike Conely and DeMarre Carroll were all rooting for Peyton Manning and the Colts during the Super Bowl. Don’t expect any ‘who dat’ cheers from them I’m guessing.

Rudy Gay
Thanks for the love yall! I can’t wait to compete with the USA National team!
Rudy Gay and O.J. Mayo were named to the National Team today.

Hasheem Thabeet
d[-_-]b

Sam Young
What time is the game...
This was about the Super Bowl, not the Hawks game.

Damarre Carroll
Damarre has either closed his account or amped up his privacy settings. Oh well.

Final Shots
Ronald McDonald coming out with the player honored for Black History Month isn’t getting any less strange. Between him and the Joker (“here we go” to fire up the crowd before the fourth quarter) there were at least two clowns in the arena unless you count Memphis Sport managing editor @cerrito. Then there’s three. Zach Randolph made a layup in the middle of a cartwheel – see top photo. O.J. Mayo had the play of the game with a reverse fast-break layup. Mike Conley was featured on the cover of the gameday program as a kind of backhanded compliment, the headline accompanying his picture said “Surrounded by Stars.” Coach Lionel Hollins told the team to enjoy themselves during the week long break.

The Grizzlies are on a one week break as part of NBA All-Star Weekend. Zach Randolph will be particiapating in the All-Star game, and O.J. Mayo and Marc Gasol will play in the Rookie-Sophomore game. The Grizzlies next game will be at FedExForum on February 16 against Phoenix.

What the hell just happened? How did the 11-straight at home team get demolished at home after three days rest by what was supposed to be an equal opponent? Coach?

“You ever been in a physical fight and gotten your ass beat? That what happened.”

Ok. Thanks. But about why…

“Look if I knew the answers to all your questions I wouldn’t be coaching. I’d be making a lot more money as a coach’s consultant.”

Riiiight.

Crap, Crap and more Crap
The center of last night’s miserable performance was in rebounds, where the Grizzlies were beaten 50-35. Despite having a major size advantage with Gasol, Thabeet and Randolph, Houston’s small inside players pushed the Grizzlies around – messing up their timing and positioning regularly. Aside from getting routinely out hustled and outplayed, the Grizzlies looked confused and frustrated, fumbling the ball often and missing easy shots.

What is this round thing?
Photo by Chase Gustafson

Flux Capacitor
Between the amazingly apathetic crowd (I mean seriously? I think I’ve seen more energy at the Westminster Dog Show) terrible play by the team and overall feeling of hopelessness sitting around the Forum, it seemed like the Grizz had taken their Delorean back to last season, and forgot that they had actually gotten pretty good. Since this is the second time in two weeks the Grizzlies have lost two in a row (after not doing it for most of December and January) there is some cause for concern that the team has already peaked.

So coach, what do you tell your team after a loss like this?

“I tell them we’re going to get on the plane and go to Minnesota.”

Yeah that should do it.

Who is approving this stuff?
I normally avoid talking about what other press outlets are doing in their coverage, even if it’s tempting, but today’s CA sports cover leaves me no choice. Take a look.

Shane we always love it when you come to town...

I mean that headline... with that picture... If you can’t see what’s wrong here - kudos. I can’t un-see it.

You had to be there
Despite Hollins surrendering with about 5 minutes left in the game, fans stuck around to see hometown favorite Joey Dorsey finish out the game. Dorsey had 7 points, 12 rebounds, a steal and a block in 12 minutes.

Dunk of the Game
The real dunk of the game was Houston’s Chase Budinger, whose reverse slam with 3:34 left in the second quarter marked the beginning of the end for the Grizzlies. In fact Budinger’s jam was so intense that the crowd actually had a reaction. Runner up goes to Sam Young, for his jam with 9:21 left in the game. The crowd (and the team for that matter) started to wake up a little after that one, but then decided it was too much effort and went back to sleep.

Twitter Watch
Rudy Gay and DaMarre Carroll have updated their profile pages and want you to check them out. Here’s some other highlights from the players over the past 3 days.

Rudy Gay

I wish I was 15 and in Baltimore right now! This would be a great snow day

RT@K_Bogans10: @rudygay22 dude it’s a saturday…… cmon man( I forgot its sat,lol but the kids gonna be out for a while)

DeMarre Carroll

I’m not feeling good! About to fly out.

I wonder how this one would have been spoken with the exclamation mark.

Sam Young

3 strikes your out….

Final Shots
Houston’s uniforms last night featured yellow piping – making the team look like McDonald’s billboards. This was appropriate because, yet again, Ronald McDonald joined the player honored for Black History Month. The January highlight reel played in the first quarter was sponsored by Corey B. Trotz’s firm NST. After the game was out of reach the Grizzlies reverted to using the “Ballroom Blitz” for the Grizz Ball Blaster. They are 2-0 when using Great Balls of Fire as the Ball Blaster Theme song.

The Grizzlies play at Minnesota tonight at 7 pm. You can follow @douggillon or @cerrito for updates and insight during the games.

On the two year anniversary of the Pau Gasol trade that some called one of the most lopsided in NBA history, the Grizzlies defeated the trade’s “winners” on the back of the trade’s initial non-entity and moved back into playoff contention.

Despite the three to four thousand Faker fans, a 44-point night from Kobe and a two game losing streak, the Grizzlies once again adapted their game plan to the situation and took down another division leader. Thoughts, Twitter Watch, Dunk of the Game and more after the jump.

Gasol on Gasol
Two years ago Grizzlies GM Chris Wallace was maligned for trading Pau Gasol to the Lakers for what, as most at the time decided, was a whole lot of nothing. Part of that nothing? Pau’s brother Marc, now arguably one of the top 4 centers in the league in only his second season. Baby Gasol outscored, outblocked, outrebounded, and all-around outplayed his elder All-Star Brother in a bearded Spanish blood-duel that was the definite highlight of the night, with the possible exception of…

Yes, Kobe Broke the Damn Record
Kobe Bryant’s 44 points allowed him to pass Jerry West and become the top scorer in Laker’s history, but it didn’t matter now did it? The Grizzlies still won. Kobe didn’t look like he would break the record at the start, missing his first four attempts and first two free throws, but quickly turned that streak around in the second quarter and started drawing a lot of fouls to go with his points. In the second half Bryant scored more frequently but with fewer fouls as the team shifted their focus to stopping every other Laker scorer, and Kobe shifted his focus to winning the game. To bad for the MVP, it wasn’t enough.

Bizarro Bench
The minute we noticed Sam Young was out for the night (allergic reaction to mid-southerners cheering for a team from 1000 miles away for no good reason) the Grizzlies seemed doomed. He was the only bench player consistently scoring, and with the fatigue woes apparent in Saturday’s game against New Orleans, it seemed unlikely the Grizzlies could compete with Los Angeles’ bench. Trend was justified for about 5 minutes after the starters went out, when two different lineups featured only one starter and that starter (first Rudy, then Randolph) was the only one with any points. Then Lester Hudson happened.

Hudson drained two three pointers as part of his 11 second quarter points (13 for the game), leading a bench squad that actually expanded the lead. Even a rare Haddadi sighting produced two points as the Grizzlies' reserves outscored the Laker’s bench 21 – 14.

Rudy Blue No More
If Rudy Gay was in a funk because of his perceived all-star snub, consider it over. Gay led the Grizzlies in scoring with 25 points – and he did it while being guarded by Ron Artest, one of the best defenders in the league. Oh and that game losing miss by Artest? Credit that to Rudy as well. With the whole team focusing on Kobe to try the game winning three, Artest was left open in the corner for a clear shot, but Rudy Gay closed on him like lightning, forcing him to adjust the angle and push the shot far enough for a Grizzlies’ win.

Home Court Advantage
The faker fans tried their best to give LA some kind of edge, but in the end were a non-factor.

Although not all the Purple and Gold in the house was worn by Faker Fans.

Coach Lionel Hollins said the fans can cheer for whoever they want, but he hopes the Grizzlies won some of them over with the victory. Center Marc Gasol had a different take, saying he felt sorry for locals in purple and gold. Who knows, maybe all those Faker fans gave Gasol even more motivation than normal.

Be on the lookout for any fourth quarter timeout performance by the Beale Street Flippers. The flippers sometimes perform at halftime, but for this game and the Phoenix game, the flippers were a significant distraction for the opposing team, who can’t help but be enthralled by the Memphis acrobatics. Grizzlies get to strategize while the visitors are forced to idolize – and it’s working so far.

You Had to Be There
FedExForum’s second sellout of the season was significantly more intense than the first (MLK day vs. Phoenix) and the amount and volume of the Faker fans made the contest at times seem like a big High School game, with every play garnering significant positive and negative reactions from the crowd of over 18,000.

The big feeling wasn’t just coming from the fans though. O.J. Mayo was so intense he got himself a technical for arguing his third foul. The guy really wanted to guard Kobe, but forgot the unspoken NBA rule that looking #24 in the eyes is an automatic foul. Marc and Pau Gasol were going after each other under the basket, and often shooting glances at their parents, who were in attendance. Rudy Gay and Kobe Bryant were exchanging big three point attempts, the first before the half when Rudy made a desperation heave way too early, after which the Lakers quickly shot the ball back up Kobe in the corner, who drained one to give the Lakers a halftime lead. Later Rudy nailed a three-pointer to put the Grizzlies up 5 with 29.5 second left, followed by Kobe needing all of 4 seconds to put one down on the other side to cut the lead back to 2. With the score 90-88 and Zach Randolph shooting the first of two free throws to extend the lead, Marc Gasol couldn’t even watch - staring up at the rafters until the ball had fallen in.

Dunk of the Game

Bench Scoring: Photographic Evidence from JD Meredith.

Mizzou alum DaMarre Carroll. The junkyard dog had a sick two-fisted jam off a sick Jamaal Tinsely assist as part of the Bizarro Bench’s second quarter run. Perhaps this is the beginning of a trend. Rudy Gay’s rebound/dunk might have been cooler – but we have to give some love to the subs stepping up.
Dunk Count, 2: 1 Carroll, 1 Gay

Twitter Watch

Rudy Gay

O yea IM BACK!!!!

Sam Young

Great win… Now off to the next one…

DaMarre Carroll

Big Big Big Win tonight. Now off to Cleveland for our next game. Congrats to Kobe!

Hasheem Thabeet

Watchin the Grammy’s!!!!!

Granted this was a few days ago.

Final Shots
Former Memphis Tiger and Grizzlies minority owner Elliot Perry was honored as part of a black history month celebration. He was joined by the President of the Grizzlies, a local McDonald’s franchise owner, and Ronald McDonald. Another former Memphis Tiger and current New England Patriots kicker Stephen Gostkowski was in the house to kick a field goal on the floor to win free tater tots for the crowd. He missed both attempts but tots were given anyway. Z-Bo was given a technical for throwing his headband in an effort to communicate to Grizzlies play-by-play man Pete Pranica that things were not going well. The win put the Grizzlies back into playoff contention, at the eighth spot.

The Grizzlies play tonight at Cleveland in the second game of a back to back scheduled by a prankster at the league office. You can follow @douggillon and @cerrito for live updates and analysis from the games.

I feel like I’ve watched this game at least six times this year. Mayo hit clutch threes. Rudy Gay was everywhere. Gasol and Randolph dominated scoring inside. The bench couldn’t score. The Grizzlies pulled out another close one in Detroit to exceed their win total from last year and continue to gain ground in what is shaping up to be a very interesting playoff race. Oh and the Commercial Appeal just reported that Zach Randolph WILL be an All-Star. How about that. Observations, Dunk of the Game, Twitter Watch and playoff picture after the jump.

Big Inside
Marc Gasol and Zach Randolph led the Grizzlies in scoring (24,25) and, just like Monday’s game against Orlando and several others this season, were the eventual reason for the win. Even with Ben Wallace and Jason Maxiell having a very good night under the glass, Detroit was unable to build any significant lead, and their inability to capitalize on mistakes by the Grizzlies had a lot to do with the big men from Memphis.

Show Dem What It Is!
Mike Conley’s play has been rapidly improving over the past few months, and last night was a standout for the often maligned Ohio State product. Conley scored 12 of his 14 points in the first half, and his assist to turnover ratio (6:2) was helpful. Oh and by the way, Conley shot an NBA best in three point percentage in January, and is on pace to break Mike Miller’s franchise record for three-point percentage in a season. Yeah, that Mike Miller.

Dunk of the Game
Marc Gasol put down a signature two-handed jam with 6:13 left in the second quarter to put the Grizzlies up 39-30, at the time their biggest lead of the night. The play was especially pretty due to the an O.J. Mayo bounce pass assist that would have made Pythagoras jealous.
Dunk Count: 2, both by Gasol.

Twitter Watch
I think this bit is catching on… we can now welcome DaMarre Carroll into the mix, and Mike Conley seems to be tweeting with a little more regularity. Clearly they are all just looking to get mentioned here.

DeMarre Carroll
thx for followin me and shwn me luv my 1st time on twitter. keepn me warm in cold detroit.

WOW Greg Oden thats all i got to say....then he tried to apologize.LMAO

Nude photos of Portland Center Greg Oden were leaked onto the internet yesterday. No I will not link them here… go find them yourself.

Rudy Gay
that boy greg oden is crazy

Its cold as hell in Detroit!

This was re-tweeted by Thabeet just moments later - didn’t both of them play college ball at UConn? Wouldn’t they be used to it?

Hasheem Thabeet
Good W tonight, Now heading to San Antonio.. #pissedoff

Mike Conley
Good win tonight , getting ready to get on the plane in a little bit.

Playoff Watch
The win against the Pistons put the Grizzlies a little more firmly in the 7th potential playoff spot, but also has them only one game out of the three way tie for 4th between Utah, San Antonio and Portland. The Grizzlies could make strides toward home court advantage in the playoffs with a win over San Antonio in Texas on Friday. Don't get too excited though, because just 1-1.5 games behind the Grizzlies are four teams: Phoenix, New Orleans, Houston and Oklahoma City. The Grizzlies have New Orleans at home on Saturday. If you're a Grizz fan, root for every team in the east, and against every team I just mentioned in addition to watching the Grizzlies.

Final Shots
NBA officiating is still terrible. Brian Hill, who used to be the head coach of the Vancouver Grizzlies, now works as an assistant coach in Detroit. Lionel Hollins used to be an assistant coach under Hill. According to the Commercial Appeal, Z-Bo is an All-Star – just in case you missed it up top. Marc Gasol and O.J. Mayo were named to the sophomore team to play against the rookie team during all-star weekend. Pete Pranica is apparently very interested in the status of Z-Bo’s headband. And - again, Z-Bo is an All-Star!

It started as a lethargic showing from the team and the crowd. It ended as one of the signature wins of the season. Last night the Grizzlies proved, yet again, that they can take on and defeat any team in the league. They contained Superman. They withstood a barrage of threes. They won another defensive game. They beat the reigning champs of the East, and finally moved into that last playoff spot.

Superman Conquistó
Two Titans clashed last night in fashion worthy of a Japanese Monster flick, and it was Marc Gasol who won. While Dwight Howard’s stat line was better (27 pts, 15 boards, 6 blks), Gasol’s ability to keep Howard in check with mostly single coverage gave the Grizzlies extra opportunities on both sides of the ball. Gasol played a physical, but smart game, notching a career high four steals and hammering in a three point play that essentially sealed the game. So if this was a Monster Movie, Howard would be Gamera, the all-powerful super-dragon from outer space, and Gasol would be Godzilla, the hometown favorite who wins in the end.

The Best Win?
Last night’s win tied the Grizzlies with Cleveland and the Lakers for home win streaks this season. Between the water main, beating LeBron, Denver, Phoenix on MLK day, and even the blowout against Minnesota, it’s been an amazing streak. But last night’s victory may have been the most special. The team came out looking like they were still hungover from Saturday’s Grizz Gala, but overcame a 16 point second quarter deficit, and weathered 20 lead changes and 10 ties. Orlando wasn’t tired, unhealthy, or just having an off night. The Eastern Champs played the best they had, and the Grizzlies still came out ahead. It’s no wonder Lionel Hollins, when asked after the game which of the 11 wins stood out, said, “I can only remember this one.”

Full Court All-Star
Just in case his consistent 20-10 performances aren’t enough to convince All-Star voters to push him in before the selections are announced Thursday, Zach Randolph had an even better game than normal (23-19) and gave the voters a shot to remember, a 3/4 court shot at the buzzer to give the Grizz a two-point lead at the half. The shot hung in the air for at least a full second before draining the net and officially waking up the announced crowd of 12,273. Officials had to review the shot during halftime after it broke the box scorer’s awesome meter.

O.J. Wants You to Talk to Your Friends
We tried to tell you here after the last game, that this team needs to be seen. Last night when asked what he would say to those fans who haven’t come out to see this team yet, Mayo said, “They better ask somebody.”

You Had to Be There
Grizzlies MC Rick Trotter perfectly captured the moment after the final buzzer by adapting his usual “Grizzlies Win!” to “Grizzlies Win! Again!” Small adjustment - great for the crowd - and probably repeated about 12,273 times after the confetti fell.

Dunk of the Game
Only one for the Grizz! Mayo had one opportunity on a fast break, but was under tight guard from Rashard Lewis and chose to execute the safer layup instead. The only dunk came from Gasol with 1:35 left in the first, when the Conquistador beat Superman to the basket for a two-handed slam.
Dunk Count: 1 – Gasol

Post Game Twitter Watch
Rudy Gay
@DwightHoward lol. Good luck on the next one

@DwightHoward you mess with me your gonna get a TECH! Lol

Note: Howard received a technical foul with 7:16 left in the third after taunting Marc Gasol. Howard’s reply to Rudy’s twitter taunt: @rudygay22 next time imma say and one to the crowd. Good game though

Hasheem Thabeet Note: The dream must have been upset about something... he was tweeting up a storm. See his Twitter page for everything, a few selections here.

hhahaha the Critics.. WHere Ya'll At?? LOL I Love my life man.. there was haters.. Oh now.. They GONE!!!

ok tonight i just decide imma go off on ya haters and critics, i been quiet for a minute.. i been doin alot of stuff all over the wolrld..

Final Shots
The Grizzlies are 1-0 this season when Grizz cuts a woman in half during a timeout. Memphis Sport Managing Editor Kevin Cerrito has a massive man-crush on Jason Williams. Zach Randolph is 1-1 this season from the opposing three-point line. Dwight Howard smiles as much as O.J. Mayo does the stone face. Mike Conley is playing really well – doing point guard things and shooting .600 from beyond the arc in January. Howard came out to warm up early and spent about 10 minutes taking pictures and signing autographs for fans. Howard and  Magic point guard Jameer Nelson both gave their jerseys to fans after the loss. Patrick Ewing was in the house.

The Grizzlies play at Detroit on Wednesday and at San Antonio on Friday. They return to Memphis on Saturday against New Orleans. You can follow @douggillon and @cerrito for live updates and insight from the games.

If you’re looking for entertainment for the next few months, a Grizzlies game at FedExForum seems to be your best bet. The Grizz have now won a franchise record 10 in a row at home, and aren't showing any signs of slowing down. All the apathy and pitiful play is gone, replaced with a confident, committed, and talented squad.

Dunk of the Game
Rudy Gay. While not even close to being big #22’s biggest play of the game, Rudy had two soaring one handed jams in the first half, with the most impressive executed under tight coverage from Serge Ibaka.
Dunk Count: 3. Gay – 2, Gasol – 1

Worthy of a Conquistador
Marc Gasol dominated inside, making KU product Nick Collison look silly (0 pts, 2 turnovers, 5 fouls), and wrecking considerable havoc on Jeff Green. His biggest contribution? Boards. The patented one-handed Gasol rebound is becoming such a force that it now has a name, the Latin Lasso, courtesy of MS Twitter follower @steph38103.

Double Deuce is Loose
Rudy Gay did a good job defensively in his tough matchup against Oklahoma City’s Kevin Durant and also dominated offensively, scoring 25 and sinking the game winner with 1.5 remaining. Clearly trade rumors are not bothering him in the least.

Finding a Way to Win
In the current home win streak, the Grizzlies have consistently adapted their game plan as necessary to pull out the W. Early in the streak Z-Bo pounded the inside. Last weekend outside shooting became a key factor. Against Oklahoma City it was solid rebounding and tough defense. Coach Lionel Hollins said recently that he’s only able to adapt this much because of the versatile talent on his squad.

Big Minutes from the Big Man
Hasheem Thabeet earned career highs in minutes and rebounds (23 and 9 respectively) and tied his career high for blocks (4). He was as much of a presence in controlling the inside as he’s been all season.

What’s Up Bench? Not the Scoring…
Of the Grizzlies 86 points, the Memphis bench scored… wait for it… two (a jumper from Sam Young). Based on the initial box it appeared only three bench players would even enter the game (Thabeet, Young and Tinsley), but DaMarre Carroll did come in for two minutes in the fourth. 

Post Game Twitter Watch
Note: Marcus Williams has protected his tweets, so MS will not publish them here without permission. You can request to follow him @mw1II.

Rudy Gay
RT @KevinDurant35: Tuff loss..good shot @rudygay22...( Thanks bra)

Hasheem Thabeet
http://twitpic.com/zbvvg - Mommy in The HOUSE!! Mean Muggin @ Ya Haters!!! #thuglife Lmao

Randoms
Grizzlies are undefeated when Great Balls of Fire plays during the Ball Blaster segment. Sumo Thunderdome is the greatest timeout contest of all time, if only because it features Grizz in turquoise spandex. It’s fun to see former Jayhawks do poorly. The win put the Grizzlies a half game out of the final playoff spot in the West, just behind the Thunder. 

Doug Gillon covers the Grizzlies for MS when not getting angry about Allen Iverson being selected as an All-Star Starter. You can follow him and MS managing editor Kevin Cerrito live during games @douggillon and @cerrito respectively.