PORTLAND, Ore. – The Portland Trail Blazers completed a two-game sweep of the Memphis Grizzlies, securing a 122-115 victory on Saturday night. The win was fueled by a dominant performance from center Donovan Clingan, who registered 20 points and a remarkable 19 rebounds, and a strong offensive showing from Jerami Grant.
The Blazers erased an 11-point second-half deficit, showcasing resilience and a renewed offensive push in the fourth quarter. Grant led all scorers with 29 points, while Jrue Holiday added 21 to complement Clingan’s impressive performance. The victory brings Portland’s record to 25-28.
Memphis, despite a spirited effort, couldn’t overcome Portland’s size and late-game execution. Olivier-Maxence Prosper led the Grizzlies with 25 points, largely on the strength of a career-high seven three-pointers. Javon Small contributed 22 points off the bench, but Memphis’ starting lineup managed only 54 points collectively.
Clingan’s performance was particularly noteworthy, marking his 13th game of the season with 15 or more rebounds – an NBA-leading figure. His impact extended beyond scoring, contributing to a significant 14-5 advantage in offensive rebounds and a 24-4 differential in second-chance points for the Blazers. His +19 plus/minus rating was the highest of any player in a game decided by just seven points, highlighting his all-around influence.
The game saw several shifts in momentum. After a tightly contested first half that ended in a 63-63 tie, the Grizzlies came out strong in the third quarter, building a double-digit lead with a 19-8 run. However, Portland responded, ultimately outscoring Memphis in the final frame to secure the win.
Portland’s ability to capitalize on second-chance opportunities proved crucial. Clingan’s rebounding prowess created numerous extra possessions, allowing the Blazers to stay within striking distance and ultimately take control. The team’s passing offense also proved effective, contributing to the overall offensive flow.
The Grizzlies’ struggles were partly attributed to limited production from their starting five. While Prosper and Small provided a spark off the bench, the team lacked consistent scoring from its primary contributors. Memphis will look to rebound on February 9th with a road game against the Golden State Warriors.
The Blazers’ win marks their second consecutive victory over Memphis, following a 135-115 win on February 6th. Grant had 23 points in that contest, demonstrating a consistent scoring threat for Portland. The back-to-back victories provide a boost for the Blazers as they navigate a competitive Western Conference.
The game also highlighted the growing impact of Clingan, a key addition to the Blazers’ roster. His rebounding and interior presence are quickly becoming cornerstones of Portland’s game plan. His ability to control the boards not only provides scoring opportunities but also limits opponents’ chances.
While the Grizzlies showed flashes of potential with their bench contributions, their inability to maintain a consistent offensive output ultimately proved costly. The team will need to find ways to generate more scoring from its starters to compete effectively in the Western Conference.
The Blazers’ victory was a team effort, with contributions from multiple players. Holiday’s 21 points provided valuable support to Grant and Clingan, while Sidy Cissoko also played a role in the team’s offensive success. Portland’s ability to distribute the scoring load is a positive sign for their future prospects.
Looking ahead, the Blazers will aim to build on this momentum as they continue their season. Their success will likely hinge on Clingan’s continued development and the consistent performance of their core players. The Grizzlies, meanwhile, will need to address their scoring inconsistencies and find ways to improve their overall team performance.
