(Sports Network) - While one squad is nearing a postseason berth, the other is
just trying to stay alive in the hunt.
The Memphis Grizzlies will continue their pursuit of another playoff spot when
they entertain the hungry Utah Jazz tonight at FedEx Forum.
Memphis is currently seeded fifth in the Western Conference -- 1 1/2 games
behind the Los Angeles Clippers and one ahead of defending champion
Dallas. Utah is 1 1/2 games in back of Houston and Denver for the final two
spots in the standings.
Memphis had won four straight and nine of 11 games before suffering a 107-97
setback at San Antonio the last time out on Thursday. Rudy Gay had 19 points
and Marc Gasol collected 14 points and 10 rebounds for the Grizzlies, who got
15 points from Marreese Speights.
"It was a battle. They pressured us, played aggressive and played physical
defense on us," Gay said.
The Grizzlies are back home and will try to extend their six-game winning
streak as the host tonight. They are 21-7 at FedEx Forum this season. Memphis
guard Tony Allen (lacerated lip) is questionable for Saturday and has missed
five straight games.
Utah will close out a three-game road trip this evening and is coming off last
night's 96-85 loss at New Orleans.
Paul Millsap shook off a sprained right wrist to finish with 27 points and
eight rebounds, while Al Jefferson scored 19 points in the setback.
"This is a big loss for us tonight," said Millsap. "This was a game we needed
and one we were supposed to win."
The Jazz entered the game having won two straight and four of six games. They
have taken the first two matchups with Memphis this season and 15 of the
previous 18 meetings between the teams.
Utah and Memphis have split the past 16 encounters on Beale Street.
The Sports Network