----- CJ McCollum scored 25 points and the Blazers forced 22 turnovers as they cruise to a 116-96 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies Wednesday night at Moda Center.
Defense was the word Wednesday night at Moda Center!
The Portland Trail Blazers played inspired basketball in the second half led by their defense as they improve to 2-2 on the season with a 116-96 win over the Memphis Grizzlies Wednesday night at Moda Center.
The Blazers suffocated the Grizzlies in the second half holding them to just 39 points as they took command of the game. Ja Morant entered the game as the NBA's leading scorer at 35 points per game, but was held to just 17 on 5-of-12 shooting.
The Blazers forced 22 turnovers leading to 30 points and limited the Grizzlies to just 36.5% shooting.
CJ McCollum led Portland with 25 points, Damian Lillard finished with 20 points and 10 assists, and Anfernee Simons led the bench with 17 points on 6-of-10 shooting.
Jusuf Nurkic bounced back after a poor outing Monday against the Clippers finishing with 17 points and eight rebounds on 6-of-8 shooting.
Up Next- The Trail Blazers host the Los Angeles Clippers Friday night at Moda Center. The game is scheduled to tip off at 7:00 PM.
Chad's Take- The third quarter was a perfect example of how Chauncy Billups wants this team to play.