Grizzlies vs Nuggets Final Score: Memphis Defense Stifles Denver Team Missing Nikola Jokic

Grizzlies Win Defensive Battle

The Memphis Grizzlies emerge victorious in a defensive battle against the Denver Nuggets, winning with a final score of 109-105 on Friday night. The Denver Nuggets missed their star player Nikola Jokic in the game due to right hamstring soreness, which made a significant impact on the team's performance. The Grizzlies' defense shined throughout the game, holding the Nuggets to just 42.9% shooting from the field and 28.9% from three-point range. Memphis also forced 19 turnovers and scored 25 points off those turnovers. Denver struggled to find an offensive rhythm without Jokic, and their offense often looked stagnant.

Morant Leads Grizzlies Offense

Ja Morant led the Grizzlies in scoring with 24 points, followed by Jaren Jackson Jr. with 22 points and Desmond Bane with 19 points. Morant also dished out 10 assists, while Jackson Jr. grabbed 12 rebounds. The Grizzlies got solid contributions from their bench, with Brandon Clarke scoring 14 points and Tyus Jones adding 12 points.

Nuggets Struggle Without Jokic

Aaron Gordon led the Nuggets in scoring with 25 points, followed by Jamal Murray with 23 points and Michael Porter Jr. with 18 points. Murray and Porter Jr. combined to shoot just 11-of-36 from the field, as the Nuggets struggled to create consistent offense without Jokic. The Nuggets missed Jokic's presence in the paint, as they were outrebounded by the Grizzlies 50-35.

Conclusion

The Grizzlies' defense was the key to their victory, as they were able to stifle the Nuggets' offense even without Jokic on the court. The Grizzlies are now 3-1 on the season, while the Nuggets drop to 2-2. The Grizzlies will face the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday, while the Nuggets will host the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday.