In a season when NBA teams are scoring more and playing faster on offense, the Memphis Grizzlies are taking the opposite approach — relying on their defense. That certainly proved their successful night.

Marc Gasol scored 20 points, including the go-ahead free throws with 4.6 seconds remaining, and Memphis edged the Nuggets 89-87 to end their five-game winning streak.

The Nuggets (9-2) had a chance after Gasol’s foul shots, but Nikola Jokic’s 3-point attempt bounced off the rim and Denver’s rebound tip was also off the mark. Nikola who averages 11 shots a game, took just one — his 3-point try in the closing seconds.

The game was a contrast of styles, with Memphis relying on its slower-pace defensive approach against a Denver team that entered averaging almost 112 points per game.

„They definitely got us into their game,“ Nuggets reserve center Mason Plumlee said, later adding: „It was a slow, slow game, so I think that benefited them.“

ESPN