Three takeaways from Jaylen Wells, Memphis Grizzlies' summer league win vs OKC Thunder
GG Jackson and Jaylen Wells combined for 40 points, leading the Grizzlies to a 92-80 win against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
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Memphis was shorthanded, but it had enough firepower to pull out the victory. The Grizzlies ramped up the defensive intensity and held OKC to 7-for-23 shooting on 3-pointers.
Jackson and Wells each scored 20 points to lead the Grizzlies.
Here are three takeaways from the summer league win.
A new and improved Jaylen Wells
Wells wanted an expanded role in the summer, and he got that against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Wells was a ball handler in pick-and-roll situations and took advantage early. While his playmaking still needs work, he showed potential and got reps that he didn't get much during his rookie season.
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Wells finished the game with 20 points, four rebounds and three assists. He also hounded opponents with ball pressure on defense, further ensuring his role as a defensive stopper.
Cam Spencer, GG Jackson impressions
While Wells was already an expected contributor in Memphis, Jackson and Cam Spencer both entered summer league action with something to prove.
Jackson did so by producing a strong scoring effort. The key for Jackson will be efficiency. He's proven that he can score, but sometimes the volume of shots is not conducive to what Memphis wants. That wasn't the case against the Thunder.
Spencer is known for his 3-point shooting, but his full offensive game was on display against OKC. He finished with 14 points and added five assists. His ability to contribute without relying on 3-pointers will unlock his game to new levels.
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First look at Javon Small
Cedric Coward didn't play while he continues to nurse a shoulder injury, and Jahmai Mashack is out while a pending trade finalizes, but Memphis fans did get to see one of its three draft acquisitions.
Javon Small made his debut against the Thunder. Small came off the bench but still produced a team-high six assists in 19 minutes to go with four points.
His scoring and defense were notable strengths through the draft process, but he said he believes he's an underrated playmaker. Through one game, he's proving himself right.
What's next
Memphis will get a day off before returning to Salt Lake City summer league action on Monday against the Utah Jazz.
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Many of the players who participated against OKC should be expected to play. Mashack's trade could be completed by July 7, which would clear the way for his summer league debut.
Damichael Cole is the Memphis Grizzlies beat writer for The Commercial Appeal. Contact Damichael at damichael.cole@commercialappeal.com. Follow Damichael on X, formerly known as Twitter, @DamichaelC.
This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Memphis Grizzlies summer league highlights, stats vs OKC Thunder
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