Jaren Jackson Jr. Dominates as Grizzlies Handle Clippers Behind Career Night from Cam Spencer
The Memphis Grizzlies have been searching for a spark, and on Friday night in Los Angeles, they found it in a big way. Jaren Jackson Jr. looked every bit the All-Star again, Cam Spencer lit it up off the bench, and Memphis rolled past the Clippers, 121-103, in a statement win that felt like a turning point.
Let’s break down how the Grizzlies got it done-and what it could mean moving forward.
Jaren Jackson Jr. Flips the Switch
Coming into this game, Jackson had been in a bit of a funk. He hadn’t cracked 15 points in five straight outings, and his offensive rhythm looked off. But on this night, Jackson came out aggressive-and never let up.
He poured in a game-high 31 points on an efficient 13-of-18 shooting, attacking Clippers center Ivica Zubac from the perimeter and using his quickness to get to his spots. Memphis did a great job spacing the floor, giving Jackson room to operate. And when the Clippers sagged off, Jackson made them pay with four made threes.
This wasn’t just a bounce-back game-it was a reminder of what Jackson can do when he’s assertive and the offense runs through him. His impact wasn’t limited to scoring, either.
With Zach Edey out, Jackson anchored the paint, finishing with five blocks and two steals. He was everywhere defensively, contesting shots, protecting the rim, and setting the tone on both ends of the floor.
This is the version of Jackson Memphis needs if they’re going to claw their way back into the playoff picture. And head coach Tuomas Iisalo clearly knew it-after saying earlier this month that the team didn’t do enough to get Jackson involved, the Grizzlies made it a priority this time.
The result? A dominant two-way performance from their franchise big man.
Cam Spencer’s Career Night Off the Bench
While Jackson led the charge, Cam Spencer was the unexpected X-factor. The rookie guard caught fire and never cooled off, scoring a career-high 27 points and drilling seven threes-also a personal best.
Spencer has quietly been one of the league’s most efficient shooters over the past few weeks, and this performance was the latest in a string of strong outings. He’s now scored in double figures off the bench in 10 straight games and is shooting a scorching 63.6% (35-for-55) during that stretch.
But it’s not just the shooting. With Memphis short on point guards, Spencer has stepped up as a secondary playmaker.
He tied for the team lead with six assists against the Clippers and has averaged 5.2 dimes over his last 10 games. That kind of versatility from a bench player is gold.
The Grizzlies’ second unit as a whole delivered, racking up 47 points. Every reserve who played at least 15 minutes finished with a plus/minus of +25 or better-a sign of just how dominant Memphis was when the starters got a breather.
Ja Morant’s Injury Adds a Sour Note
The only blemish on an otherwise stellar night came late in the fourth quarter when Ja Morant rolled his ankle after stepping on Zubac’s foot. He limped off the court with 3:44 remaining and didn’t return.
Morant had been on a minutes restriction-capped at around 25-as he works his way back from a left calf strain that sidelined him for 10 games. He finished with 12 points and four assists in 21 minutes before the injury.
The Grizzlies will be holding their breath. Morant has already dealt with ankle issues this season, missing the preseason with a left ankle sprain and sitting out a game in November due to soreness in his right ankle. His health will be critical if Memphis hopes to build momentum off this win.
Looking Ahead: Timberwolves Up Next
The Grizzlies won’t have much time to celebrate. They’ll head to Minnesota for a Dec. 17 showdown with the Timberwolves-the first meeting between the two teams this season.
There’s a chance Memphis could get some help in the frontcourt. Brandon Clarke, who’s been sidelined since undergoing a knee procedure in September, was listed as doubtful against the Clippers but is nearing a return. His presence would be a welcome addition, especially with Edey still out.
And of course, all eyes will be on Morant’s status. If he’s able to go, Memphis will look to build on this win and continue climbing back toward .500. But even if he’s limited, performances like the one from Jackson and Spencer show that the Grizzlies have more than one way to win.
This wasn’t just a good night-it was a glimpse of what Memphis can be when everything clicks.