Grizzlies Look to Finish Strong Against Timberwolves

Memphis aims to protect second-half leads against Minnesota's pressure defense

Jan. 31, 2026 at 7:31pm

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The Memphis Grizzlies (18-28) face the Minnesota Timberwolves (30-19) in a key matchup, as the Grizzlies look to overcome their recent struggles of blowing double-digit leads in the second half. Without injured forward Jaren Jackson Jr., the Grizzlies must find a way to maintain defensive intensity and generate quality shots late in the game to fend off Minnesota's physical style of play.

Why it matters

The Grizzlies have lost several games this season after holding double-digit leads, an issue that has plagued them in recent weeks. Against a tough Timberwolves team that thrives on pressure defense, the Grizzlies' ability to protect leads and close out games will be a crucial test of their resilience and growth as a team.

The details

The Grizzlies have shown they can build early leads, but have struggled to maintain them in the second half as opponents make adjustments and the Grizzlies fail to counter quickly enough. Without Jaren Jackson Jr., the Grizzlies must find ways to generate offense and maintain defensive intensity against Minnesota's physical style of play, which includes crashing the glass and applying constant pressure.

  • The Grizzlies lost their last game against the Pelicans on Friday, blowing a lead in the third quarter.
  • The Timberwolves are coming off a 123-111 home win against the Thunder on Thursday.

The players

Jaren Jackson Jr.

The Grizzlies' starting forward who is out of tonight's game with a left quad contusion.

Anthony Edwards

The Timberwolves' leading scorer in their last game, with 26 points.

Jaden Daniels

The Timberwolves' forward who contributed 21 points and shot 5-for-5 from 3-point range in their last game.

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What’s next

If the Grizzlies can hold firm in the second half and protect their leads, it would be a significant step in their development and help shed the label of being unable to close out games.

The takeaway

The Grizzlies' ability to maintain their intensity and composure in the second half against the physical Timberwolves will be a crucial test of their growth as a team. Overcoming their recent struggles with blown leads could be a turning point in their season.