Grizzlies Defeat Trail Blazers 124-103 as Rookie Cam Boozer Logs Triple-Double

The Memphis Grizzlies extended their undefeated start to the season with a 124-103 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers, spoiling Ja Morant's highly anticipated first game against his former team. The matchup, played at the Moda Center, featured plenty of early drama and physical play before the Grizzlies pulled away in the second half to improve to 5-0.

Morant, who was traded to Portland in June after seven seasons with Memphis, scored 14 points and added three assists in 23 minutes of action. The star guard added 14 points before exiting the game with 7:46 remaining in the fourth quarter due to a left hamstring injury. Trail Blazers head coach Micah Nori stated after the game that Morant was being evaluated for discomfort, leaving his status uncertain ahead of the team's upcoming games.

While Morant's return initially captured the spotlight, rookie Cameron Boozer ultimately stole the show. Boozer delivered a historic performance, recording 18 points, 12 rebounds, and 12 assists. With the stellar stat line, he became the youngest player in Grizzlies franchise history and the second-youngest player in NBA history to achieve a triple-double.

The rookie's versatility proved crucial as Memphis navigated frontcourt adversity. Center Zach Edey and Isaiah Stewart battled foul trouble, while Quinten Post exited the contest in the first half with an ankle injury. The Grizzlies responded by moving Boozer to center late in the second quarter, utilizing his passing and court vision to spark the offense and tie the game by halftime.

Memphis dominated the second half, outscoring Portland 66-45. A decisive 10-0 run in the third quarter broke open a close game, and the Grizzlies maintained their momentum through a balanced attack. Eight different Memphis players reached double figures in scoring, showcasing the team's depth.

Stewart contributed 18 points off the bench, while Cedric Coward added 17. Meanwhile, Deni Avdija led the Trail Blazers with 24 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists, but Portland ultimately lacked the necessary depth to keep pace with the surging visitors.

The victory capped off a successful road trip for Memphis, marking the first time the franchise has completed a road trip of four or more games without a loss since 2013. The Grizzlies will look to maintain their unblemished record when they travel to face the Sacramento Kings on Saturday, while Portland prepares to visit the Utah Jazz.