Game Thread: Toronto Raptors vs. Memphis Grizzlies
For the first time in 18 months, the Raptors are facing the Memphis Grizzlies. Let’s watch!
Finally — FINALLY! — Raptors and Grizzlies fans are about to be treated to the matchup we’ve been waiting for since last year’s trade deadline. It’s Marc Gasol vs. Jonas Valanciunas, live from Orlando!
There are a few other things to look out for today, too. It’s the Raptors’ first time facing the potential Rookie of the Year, Ja Morant, and his almost-equally-as-impressive rookie running mate, Canadian Brandon Clarke. It’s also the first time where we’ll see both the Raptors and Grizzlies wearing their retro throwbacks! Big ‘90s vibes out there, for sure.
As for what’s at stake here, well, the Grizzlies need one more win to clinch a spot in the Western conference’s top nine seeds, and ensure they’ll at least advance to a playoff play-in. They've had a rough go in the Bubble, losing four of five games, and losing Jaren Jackson Jr. to a season-ending knee injury; a second straight win would surely be good for their morale.
For the Raptors, who are looking to bounce back from a miserable performance against Boston on Friday, one more win will clinch the East’s second seed (and the Atlantic division) and get them to 50 wins, their fifth straight season reaching that watermark.
Injury-wise, Nick Nurse just sent word down that Serge Ibaka, initially listed as questionable after getting poked in the eye on Friday, is good to go. Tyus Jones won’t play for the Grizz.
Where to Watch
TSN1, TSN4, 2:00 p.m. ET
Lineups
Toronto — Kyle Lowry, Fred VanVleet, OG Anunoby, Pascal Siakam, Marc Gasol
Memphis — Ja Morant, Dillon Brooks, Kyle Anderson, Anthony Tolliver, Jonas Valanciunas
Injuries
Toronto — Patrick McCaw (left knee soreness — out)
Memphis — Tyus Jones (knee — out), Justise Winslow (hip — out), Jaren Jackson Jr. (knee —out)