Jaren Jackson Jr. led the Memphis Grizzlies with a strong start by scoring 16 of his total 27 points in the opening quarter, contributing to their 108-100 victory over the Toronto Raptors during Monday’s NBA action.
Luke Kennard also shone with a season-high 19 points, helping the Grizzlies secure their fourth consecutive win in Canada. Despite being short-handed, Memphis managed to snap a recent slump with this win, their second in the last six games.
Vince Williams Jr. contributed significantly with 18 points and 10 rebounds, while Santi Aldama scored 10 before exiting due to a sore right knee.
“We just finished the game this time,” Williams said. “We just came out, played hard, got a lot of transition points and made them shoot tough shots all night.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Jaren Jackson Jr, Memphis Grizzlies, Toronto Raptors Updates
Jackson’s performance was particularly noteworthy, as he achieved a career-high six steals, all in the first quarter, surpassing his previous best of five.
“That’s amazing,” Williams said. “Just him being active, being long and getting deflections at a high level.”
Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins praised Jackson’s all-around impact, acknowledging his role in building a solid lead and his defensive presence. Memphis never trailed in the game, established a 19-point lead at one point, and improved their road record to 12-12. Jenkins emphasized the need to translate this success to home games.
“I thought he was great on both sides of the floor,” Jenkins said. “Obviously, he allowed us to build a nice lead. His defensive presence was definitely impactful.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Jaren Jackson Jr, Memphis Grizzlies, Toronto Raptors Updates
RJ Barrett led the Raptors with 29 points, and Scottie Barnes added 22 points and 12 rebounds. Despite Immanuel Quickley’s 10 assists, he struggled with his shooting, contributing only eight points as the Raptors faced their eighth loss in ten games.
The Grizzlies were without key players Ja Morant, Marcus Smart, and Desmond Bane for various reasons, including injuries and suspension. Meanwhile, Toronto has been losing since trading two-time All-Star Pascal Siakam to Indiana.
“We’ve got to bottle something up here on the road and take it back home,” Jenkins said.
Memphis took control early, leading 30-25 at the end of the first quarter, capitalizing on Toronto turnovers. Raptors coach Darko Rajakovic lamented the team’s lack of focus and effort at the start of the game.
“It’s a question of focus and it’s a question of bringing that effort to the game,” Rajakovic said. “That was lacking for the start of the game.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Jaren Jackson Jr, Memphis Grizzlies, Toronto Raptors Updates
The Grizzlies extended their lead at halftime and maintained a comfortable margin through the third quarter. The Raptors, missing center Jakob Poeltl due to injury, are hopeful for his return soon.
Looking ahead, the Grizzlies are set to visit the Miami Heat, while the Raptors will host the Los Angeles Clippers in their upcoming games.
