Grizzlies didn’t see this coming

During the offseason, Memphis will focus on trying to get back to being a playoff contender. The Grizzlies are hopeful that luck will be with them at the NBA Lottery, as they try to secure the top pick in the upcoming draft.

Forward Pau Gasol, who was the subject of trade rumors throughout the season, continues to play hard for the Grizzlies. Gasol leads the Grizzlies in scoring (20.8 ppg) and rebounding (9.7 rpg). He has scored in double-digits in 54 of 55 games this season and has collected 30 double-doubles this season.

Gasol is averaging 20.4 points and 10.3 rebounds in his last 10 outings. He has collected six double-doubles in that span. The 7-0 Spaniard has logged at 30 or minutes in 15 straight contests.

The Grizzlies attempt to put the brakes on a five-game losing streak, as they host the disappointing Sacramento Kings on Tuesday at FedExForum. It is the third and final meeting of the campaign between the clubs. The teams split the first two contests, as both squads picked up a win at home.

Sacramento has lost three straight and five of its last six at Memphis.

Memphis opens a three-game homestand against the Kings. On Saturday, Dwight Howard recorded a double-double with 31 points and 11 rebounds to lead the Orlando Magic to a 116-89 victory over the Grizzlies at Amway Arena.

Chucky Atkins led Memphis with 18 points and Tarance Kinsey added 15 points in the loss for the Grizzlies. Hakim Warrick and Gasol both scored 14 for Memphis, which has dropped nine of its last 11 games overall.

The Grizzlies are 12-26 at home this season. They will host the Denver Nuggets on Saturday and the San Antonio Spurs next Monday, which is their final home game this season.

Rookie forward Rudy Gay (sprained right ankle) is questionable for Tuesday’s contest. Gay is averaging 11.0 points and 4.5 rebounds in 77 games for Memphis. He did not play against Orlando.

Memphis will wrap up its season against the Minnesota Timberwolves on April 18th at the Target Center.