The Utah Jazz had the best record in the league, occupying the top spot in the Western Conference. Unfortunately, in the Jazz vs Grizzlies game on May 23, Utah embarrassingly lost to the Memphis Grizzlies, 112-109.

With three all-stars, 6 MOY candidates, 1 COY candidate, and 1 DPOY, Utah had a lot going on for the team. But, Sunday’s Game 1 of the NBA playoffs first-round series showed that the team needs to change their strategies and performance.

Donovan Mitchell sits out Game 1

The most surprising and one of the reasons why the Grizzlies won is because Jazz’s shooting guard was missing from the game. However, this should not have been the case since Mitchell missed the final 16 games of the regular season because of a sprained ankle.

The All-Star player wanted to join, but the medical staff determined to hold him out of Game 1 after meeting with him on the morning shootaround. 

According to Jazz coach Quin Snyder, “Obviously, Donovan, being the competitor that he is, wants to be out there and, hopefully, will be out there soon. I think first and foremost in everyone’s mind is our players’ health. They’ll evaluate him day to day, and hopefully, he’ll be back out there soon. Like I said, he’s a competitor.”

Jazz vs Grizzlies: Memphis earned their victory

The Grizzlies take a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven-series after defeating Utah in the Jazz vs Grizzlies Game 1. Youngsters Dillon Brooks and Ja Morant were able to keep up a strong play during the game. Brooks went for 31 points, which nearly matches his career-high, while Morant finished with 26 points. 

With their tough and confident play on both ends of the floor, Memphis absolutely did their best to win. For instance, they were able to call Utah’s bluff in the pick-and-roll.

Moreover, Morant and Brooks led the way as they shot a combined 57.6% inside the arc in the second half. The Jazz was no match for their wide array of floaters, mid-range jumpers, and crafty finishes around the rim.

—(Source: SBNation)

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Also Read: 76ers vs Wizards: Philadelphia Wins Game 1, 125-118