Indiana PacersOpen full analysis
Memphis GrizzliesOpen full analysis
The Memphis Grizzlies defeated the Indiana Pacers 128–103 on October 25 at FedExForum, with C. Coward leading Memphis with 27 points while J. Morant added 19 in a dominant home performance. The Grizzlies shot 45.4 percent from the field and made 15 three-pointers, controlling the game through a decisive second quarter that yielded 37 points and a third-quarter surge of 43 points. Memphis's defense was suffocating, holding Indiana to 40.4 percent shooting and forcing 13 turnovers while committing only four of their own; the Grizzlies' defensive rating of 101.9 proved decisive against the Pacers' 101.9 offensive rating. B. Mathurin paced Indiana with 26 points and A. Nesmith contributed 15, but the Pacers' 25 assists on 103 points reflected a stagnant offensive attack that never recovered from an early deficit. Memphis's 49 rebounds and 31 assists showcased balanced team play, while Indiana's fourth-quarter collapse—just 19 points—sealed the outcome. The loss underscores Indiana's vulnerability on the road against defensive-minded opponents with strong three-point production.
