Memphis Grizzlies center Zach Edey was in foul trouble, Vince Williams Jr. was struggling and Jaren Jackson Jr. wasn’t having a big night on Dec. 7 against the Portland Trail Blazers.
The Grizzlies needed other players to step up.
Santi Aldama, Jock Landale and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope were up to the task. The trio put up strong performances off the bench to lead Memphis to a 119-96 win at FedExForum.
Aldama led Memphis with 22 points. The Grizzlies had a 69-35 advantage in bench points.
Memphis led by as many as 25 points, including 20 at halftime. Portland (9-15) used an 11-0 run early in the third quarter to get back in the game.
Edey recorded his fifth double-double of the season despite being in foul trouble. He finished with 12 points, 10 rebounds and three assists before fouling out in the fourth quarter.
The Grizzlies finished the third quarter strong and pulled away in the fourth.
Memphis will get a long rest before returning to action on Dec. 12 against the Utah Jazz (7 p.m., FanDuel Sports Network)..
Memphis Grizzlies vs Portland Trail Blazers score, live updates
The Grizzlies have ruled out Ja Morant due to his right calf strain. Morant was listed as doubtful to play. Vince Williams Jr. will start at point guard with Morant out.
What time does Grizzlies vs Blazers start?
- Date: Sunday, Dec. 7
- Time: 5 p.m. CT
- Where: FedExForum
What TV channel is Grizzlies vs Blazers on today?
Streaming: FanDuel Sports app
TV: FanDuel Sports Network Southeast
Damichael Cole is the Memphis Grizzlies beat writer for The Commercial Appeal. Contact Damichael at damichael.cole@commercialappeal.com. Follow Damichael on X, formerly known as Twitter, @DamichaelC.
