After the Memphis Grizzlies’ loss against the Toronto Raptors, head coach Taylor Jenkins blamed himself. Memphis was defeated 116-111 at home on Wednesday, just one day after defeating the San Antonio Spurs.
The Grizzlies were never in the game for the first three quarters, save for their 35-point performance in the fourth, and the setback hurts their playoff chances even more. Jenkins was candid about the loss, which was met with criticism from franchise fans.
Jenkins stated to the media following the loss that he could have done more to prepare the team:
Three of the Grizzlies’ studs were key in their success. Ja Morant’s hot streak continued with 28 points, eight rebounds, and nine assists. Desmond Bane had 22 points, four rebounds, and eight assists, while Jaren Jackson Jr. had 24 points and four rebounds.
Will Taylor Jenkins be able to provide for the Memphis Grizzlies this season?
With a record of 11-23, the Grizzlies don’t exactly have time on their side if they want to make the playoffs. The team has yet to play at the level it did last season in order to stake a claim for the playoffs.
And, while Taylor Jenkins accepts responsibility, which is a sign of a competent coach, the loss of their main player for 25 games cannot be overlooked as a major role in the team’s success.
Jenkins’ credentials include being selected Western Conference Coach of the Month in both January 2020 and December 2021. Last season, he led the team to its first division title in franchise history. This season, his primary challenge will be to keep the players motivated in what figures to be a difficult season for the team.
The good news for Memphis is that the team’s top players are all healthy, which means Jenkins will have the necessary firepower at his disposal. With the loss, he and the Grizzlies must regroup before facing the Los Angeles Lakers in an away game.
