Bane scores 44 as Grizzlies face Trail Blazers

The Memphis Grizzlies are set to face the Portland Trail Blazers in Portland on Wednesday night. The Grizzlies currently have a record of 43 wins and 26 losses, placing them fifth in the Western Conference. In their last game, Desmond Bane scored an impressive 44 points, although Memphis lost 132-122 to the Sacramento Kings. The Trail Blazers have struggled this season, holding a record of 30 wins and 39 losses, which puts them 12th in the Western Conference. They have won 7 out of 11 games decided by four points or less, but have a poor 15-30 record against conference opponents. Memphis excels in offensive rebounds, averaging 13.2 per game, led by Zach Edey with 3.6. The Grizzlies also score more points per game than the Trail Blazers allow, averaging 122.7 compared to 114.2 for their opponents. Top performers for Portland include Shaedon Sharpe, who scores 17.5 points per game, and Anfernee Simons, averaging 24.3 points in recent games. For Memphis, Jaren Jackson Jr. averages 22.5 points, while Bane averages 21.2 points and 7.5 rebounds. In their last 10 games, the Trail Blazers have a record of 4 wins and 6 losses, while the Grizzlies are 5-5. Both teams have been dealing with injuries, impacting their line-ups. The Trail Blazers will be missing several key players, including Deandre Ayton and Jerami Grant. The Grizzlies have some players listed as day to day, including Ja Morant.