It has been a rough stretch for the Raptors as their inconsistency continued in a loss to the Grizzlies. For Memphis, this was their fifth win in six games, as they beat the Raptors, 92-86. 

The brutal frontline of Zack Randolph and Marc Gasol combined for 45 points. This was a matchup where they just dominated using their size and strength to their advantage, and the Raptors had no answer. 

This was indeed a Memphis type of game, as they grinded out the game and forced the Raptors to play their brand of basketball. They held the Raptors to 31.8 percent shooting from the field and 17.9 percent from three. They also outscored the Raptors in the paint, 46 to 38. Shockingly, the Grizzlies only outscored Toronto by three in fast break points. 

Raptors guard Kyle Lowry had an all-around good game by dropping 20 points. He tried to carry the team, but his effort was not enough. In the first quarter, he also dislocated his finger, but that did not affect him, as he returned to the lineup later in the game. Raptors guard Lou Williams scored 21 points off the bench. 

In 29 minutes of play, Valanciunas achieved a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds. He tried everything in his power to stop Randolph, who made some tough shots. The Raptors didn't run much offense through Valanciunas, as he received limited touches in the post. 

Both teams struggled early with their offense. At the end of the first, it was 12-12. This was a close game for the most part, as no team had a clear advantage. The Raptors out-rebounded Memphis by five, and this kept them in the game despite their poor shooting. 

In the fourth quarter, the Raptors started out down only by one, but the Grizzlies opened up a 13-point lead after going on a 19-7 run. 

From there on, the Grizzlies were able to hold off the Raptors and close the game out, 92-86. 

The Raptors now drop to 27-15 on the year, as they will look to get back on track on Friday, January 23rd, against the Philadelphia 76ers. 

The Grizzlies bring their record to 30-12, as they will also take on the Philadelphia 76ers next. That game will be on Saturday, January 24th. 

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Francis Paul
I'm 15 years old who is looking to have a job in the field in the future i like basketball and looking forward to do good things with Vavel.