A matchup against the projected starting lineup for the Atlanta Hawks was the test for the Memphis Grizzlies on Oct. 11 at FedExForum.
A first quarter with 29 combined free-throw attempts ended with the Hawks leading by eight. Memphis struggled to recover and played from behind.
Grizzlies reserves made one last run in the fourth quarter, getting within four points in the final two minutes after trailing by as many as 16 points. However, offense remained a struggle in the Grizzlies’ 122-116 loss.
The Grizzlies (0-3) shot 34.8% in the first half. By comparison, the Hawks were at 50%. Jaylen Wells and Cedric Coward led Memphis with 15 points. Jalen Johnson led the Hawks (1-1) with 20 points.
Here are some takeaways from the game.
Grizzlies’ veterans return to lineup
Ty Jerome, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Jock Landale returned to the lineup on Oct. 11 after sitting out the last preseason game. Scotty Pippen Jr. missed the game against the Hawks due to toe soreness.
The veterans didn’t look as crisp as their first outing against the Detroit Pistons, but they were solid. Jerome continued to show his ability as a decision-maker on offense, and Caldwell-Pope knocked down three 3-pointers.
Rebounding is a concern until Zach Edey returns, but Landale showed why he can be an impactful player on the offensive glass.
Downhill Jaylen Wells?
Wells attempted 108 more 3-point shots than 2’s during his rookie season. Early preseason results indicate that those numbers will drastically change this season.
Wells, who is playing a bigger offensive role this season, has been aggressive. Not only is he seeking out 3-point shots, but he’s getting downhill and attacking the basket more than ever.
As a result, he is drawing contact and getting to the free-throw line. The second-year wing didn’t attempt a free throw in the first preseason game, but he has attempted at least seven in the past two games.
More meat on the bone
The Grizzlies pride themselves on depth, but the first three preseason games have felt like there has been meat left on the bone. GG Jackson, Coward and Vince Williams Jr. all are wings who enter the season with the potential to be impact players. It’s way too early to issue a definitive statement on the trio, but no player has stood out over long stretches.
What’s next
Back to the practice court for the Grizzlies. They do not play another game until Oct. 15 against the Charlotte Hornets. The time off should allow the them to get healthier.
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.