31/82: December 26th vs. MEM

Final Score: Raptors 126, Grizzlies 155

The rookie impressed many on Thursday night, consistently finishing in close as his size was just too much for the Raptors.

Every Memphis player dressed saw the floor, and all but Cam Spencer scored at least four points (Spencer did not take any shots). Not the kind of effort that teams like playing against.

Memphis just had one of those hot shooting nights. They finished 53.2% on field goals, exactly 40% on 3pt shots. It’s tough to stay committed defensively when every shot looks like it’s going in.

Memphis went up 10 after the first quester and never looked back. Scoring 43 points in two separate quarters will have any opponent fighting an uphill battle.

Both teams combined for 140 points in the paint (72-68 Memphis), adding to the bloated final score. I feel like someone in the league said something recently about too many 3s being taken in the games today. You may have heard of him…

But seriously, it’s not untrue. The Raptors and Grizzlies combined for 88 3pt attempts. I got curious and dug a bit. In LeBron James’ rookie season (2003-04), the average NBA game saw 14.9 3pt attempts.

RJ Barrett needed one more rebound for a triple-double. He was much more efficient on Thursday compared to some of his other stat-stuffing games. Him and Scottie Barnes combined for 53 points on 38 shots in the loss.

Chris Boucher again had a solid showing off the bench and it’s becoming more and more likely that the Raptors at least entertain some offers for him as we head closer to the trade deadline.

Question for the Grizzlies: For a team that has the talent to consistently outwork opponents in the paint, will Memphis look to add some outside shooting closer to the trade deadline for a playoff push?

The Raptors host the Atlanta Hawks Sunday. 6pm tip off.