Cedric Coward finished with 23 points and 12 rebounds Saturday night to lead the “Memphis Grizzlies” in both categories during a 129-110 victory over the “Brooklyn Nets” at FedExForum, according to game reports.
Coward shot 7-of-13 overall, hit four of six 3-point attempts, and made five of six free throws while adding four assists, two steals, and two blocks.
Grizzlies coach Tuomas Iisalo praised Coward’s defensive versatility and explained how the player adapts to different lineups. “What I like about Cedric is that he’s able to go into many, many different roles,” Iisalo stated.
Cameron Boozer noted that his teammate brings immense value to the offensive scheme. “He’s the guy that’s easy to play off because he’s got so much to his game,” Boozer said.
Memphis played without several key contributors, including Zach Edey, who missed the contest due to left ankle injury management. “Edey had been ruled out before tip-off,” team officials confirmed regarding the center missing his second straight game.
Jerami Grant was also ruled out earlier in the day ahead of the matchup against Brooklyn. “Grant was ruled out against Brooklyn” due to a reported head injury.
Coward acknowledged that the depleted roster placed a greater emphasis on his performance on the glass. “I know without Zach today, without QP, without a couple guys, JG, Ty, we needed that rebounding,” Coward explained.
The victory improved Memphis to 9-4 overall and maintained an undefeated 6-0 record on the road this season. Meanwhile, the defeat dropped the Nets to a record of 3-9.
The Grizzlies will continue their road schedule with upcoming games in Washington on Monday and in Cleveland on Wednesday.