Memphis Grizzlies vs New Orleans Pelicans Stats: Head-to-Head Battles and Key Performances

The Memphis Grizzlies and the New Orleans Pelicans have built a compelling rivalry in the NBA, delivering high-intensity matchups filled with standout performances. Examining their head-to-head statistics and key player contributions provides valuable insight into their competitive dynamics. This article takes a deep dive into their performances, analyzing key stats and highlighting notable battles between these two Western Conference teams.

Head-to-Head Performance in Recent Seasons

Over the past few seasons, the Memphis Grizzlies and the New Orleans Pelicans have faced off multiple times, with each game further intensifying their rivalry. These matchups have featured a mix of offensive showcases, defensive battles, and thrilling finishes.

• 2023–24 Season: The first meeting of the season on October 25, 2023, saw the Pelicans securing a 111–104 victory over the Grizzlies. Desmond Bane led the Grizzlies with 31 points, while Xavier Tillman dominated the boards with 12 rebounds. Despite their efforts, the Pelicans emerged victorious due to a well-rounded team performance.
• The rematch on December 19, 2023, was a different story, as the Grizzlies bounced back with a 116–110 win. Ja Morant delivered a stellar performance, scoring 34 points while adding 8 assists. This victory showcased Memphis’ resilience and ability to adjust their game plan.

Key Player Performances

The rivalry has been fueled by remarkable individual performances from both teams. Some standout players in these matchups include:

• Ja Morant (Grizzlies): Known for his explosive athleticism and scoring ability, Morant has played a crucial role in the Grizzlies’ success. His 34-point game in December 2023 highlighted his offensive prowess and playmaking skills.
• Desmond Bane (Grizzlies): A consistent offensive force, Bane has frequently stepped up when needed, including his 31-point effort in the October 2023 game.
• Brandon Ingram (Pelicans): Ingram has been a scoring machine for the Pelicans, contributing 34 points in the December 2023 matchup.
• Jonas Valančiūnas (Pelicans): A dominant presence in the paint, Valančiūnas recorded 14 rebounds in a key game, proving to be a critical factor in controlling the boards.

Comparing Team Stats: Scoring, Rebounds, and Assists

A closer look at the numbers provides further insights into how these teams match up:

• Points Per Game: The Grizzlies rely on their explosive backcourt led by Morant and Bane, while the Pelicans depend on Ingram and CJ McCollum for scoring output.
• Rebounding: The Pelicans have the edge in rebounding, with Valančiūnas anchoring the paint and securing crucial second-chance opportunities.
• Assists: The Grizzlies’ ball movement is often dictated by Morant’s ability to distribute, while the Pelicans employ a more balanced playmaking approach.

Impact of Injuries and Player Availability

Injuries have played a crucial role in shaping the outcomes of these matchups. For example, Ja Morant’s absence due to a shoulder injury in late December 2024 impacted Memphis’ performance. Despite his injury, the Grizzlies managed to secure a 132-124 victory over the Pelicans in his last game before being sidelined. On the Pelicans’ side, Zion Williamson’s recurring injuries have affected their consistency, as his presence on the court significantly enhances their offensive and defensive effectiveness.

Recent Developments in the 2024–25 Season

The 2024–25 season has brought new challenges and triumphs. On January 24, 2025, the Grizzlies defeated the Pelicans 139-126, marking their fifth consecutive win. Jaren Jackson Jr. led the team with 29 points, Luke Kennard added 27 points, and Desmond Bane recorded a double-double with 20 points and 14 assists. The Pelicans, struggling with injuries and inconsistency, could not keep up despite CJ McCollum’s 30-point effort.

Conclusion: The Future of This Rivalry

The Memphis Grizzlies and New Orleans Pelicans continue to deliver exciting contests marked by star performances and strategic battles. As both teams look ahead, their future matchups will likely be shaped by player development, injury management, and tactical adjustments. Fans can expect more thrilling encounters as these two teams strive to establish dominance in the Western Conference.

FAQs

1. Who has the better head-to-head record, the Grizzlies or the Pelicans?
The head-to-head record has fluctuated over the years, with both teams securing wins in crucial matchups. Recent seasons have seen competitive performances from both sides.

2. What are Ja Morant’s best performances against the Pelicans?
One of Morant’s standout games was on December 19, 2023, when he scored 34 points and had 8 assists to lead the Grizzlies to victory.

3. How do the Pelicans counter Ja Morant’s explosiveness?
The Pelicans focus on strong perimeter defense and rebounding to limit Morant’s scoring opportunities and fast-break points.

4. What role does Zion Williamson play in the rivalry?
When healthy, Williamson is a game-changer for the Pelicans, contributing significantly in scoring and interior defense. However, his injuries have often limited his availability in key matchups.

5. What can we expect in future matchups between the Grizzlies and Pelicans?
Future games will depend on roster changes, player health, and coaching strategies. With both teams boasting young, talented cores, their rivalry is expected to remain exciting for years to come.