How Did Pacers Lose to Grizzlies?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jonah Kubicek | Last updated Dec 1, 2024 6:00 PM ET

The Indiana Pacers fell to 9-12 on the season on Sunday evening, falling the the Memphis Grizzlies 136-121 in their first matchup of the season. Indiana was able to win the rebounding and 3-point shooting battle but was unable to take care of the basketball, losing 15 turnovers. Remarkably, all of their turnovers were in the second half.

Indiana's scoring effort was led by Bennedict Mathurin's 19 points. Four Pacers scored 15 or more points, including TJ McConnell and Obi Toppin off the bench. Tyrese Haliburton struggled, scoring only eight points on inefficient shooting to go with seven assists.

Memphis, on the other hand, was led by Jaren Jackson Jr.'s 25 points. The Grizzlies fell behind early, losing by 19 points in the second quarter, but quickly clawed their way back against the Pacers, leading for the entirety of the fourth quarter.

Rick Carlisle has been worried about Indiana's lack of effort, and the 21-point swing in the second half is a testament to the lack of fire the Pacers have, but there is hope that they can right the ship as they start to recover from injuries.

After missing the last 12 games with a knee injury, Andrew Nembhard returned to the lineup and got a starting nod. He played 15 minutes in the first half and scored 14 points, but did not return in the second half as he is under a minutes restriction. If he can replicate that production over an entire game, it would give the lineup a much-needed boost.

The Pacers will wrap up NBA Cup play in their next game on Tuesday as they travel to take on the Toronto Raptors.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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