By Darryl Harding Sr –
Desperately depleted by injury, the Memphis Grizzlies, unfortunately traveled to Boston with only an eight-man active roster. With such stars as Ja Morant out for a period of time, the Grizzlies, coming in with a record of 18-31, looking to salvage what has been an already disappointing season.
The Celtics, starting tonight’s game without Jalen Brown, managed to control the game entirely, leading in all categories except for turnovers and fouls. Offensively, the Celtics displayed the usual prowess of Jason Taman Tatum, scoring 34, and Kristaps Porzingis, ending the night with 26.
Also listed as injured, for the Grizzlies, was beloved ex-Celtic, Marcus Smart, who’s return to the garden was met with a standing ovation and signs that read, “we still love you Marcus.” ”I got a lot of respect for Marcus Smart,” said Al Horford claiming that s young Smart was part of the reason he came to Boston.
Welcome or not, the Celtics crisp defense, allowing only 91 points for the game, a season low, that proved to be insurmountable to the Grizzlies. The Celtics handled the Grizzlies readily and unlike the previous game, where a short-handed but motivated Lakers team managed to pull off the upset victory.
Boston still holds the highest record in the league sitting at 38-12 for the season. The Celtics have proven that when they are locked in on defense steals and blocks become easy opportunities for fast break points.
Another small highlight was rookie Jordan Walsh receiving the game ball after scoring his first two NBA points. Boston goes on to host the Hawks, Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. and Memphis will travel to New York to face the Knicks, Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.