Rockets' K.J. Martin's Career Night Was A Testament Of Season-Long Contributions
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MEMPHIS — Ja Morant's anticipated return overshadowed every storyline inside FedEx Forum Wednesday night, which included a career performance from K.J. Martin.
Martin registered 31 points on 12-for-18 shooting, 2-for-5 from behind the arc, while the Houston Rockets fell 130-125 to the Memphis Grizzlies. He also added six rebounds and two rejections in the loss.
Martin said it was "fun" to compete against the Grizzlies in their third match-up of the season. And he credited Memphis' physical play for helping him reach another level.
"I was just out there playing aggressively," Martin said. "I knew going into the game they were a physical team, and I like to play physically. Every game, I am trying to get my teammates open, and then the game will open up for myself.
"I was getting hit a little bit, but they were not calling it. So I just stuck to my game and kept attacking while playing through the contact."
The second-generational forward had a memorable night to kick off the Rockets' five-game road trip. But Martin's contributions in Memphis have been consistent for coach Stephen Silas all season.
The same energy and hustle showcased against the Grizzlies have been the key to a career season for Martin, who is currently averaging 12.6 points and 5.6 rebounds across 73 games.
In addition to his play against the Grizzlies, Martin has eclipsed 20 points or more in three over the last eight games.
"He was out there just doing what he does," Silas said. "He is an expert at it. He was just so aggressive and attacking the rim. He continues to be consistent, and that is important in his development."
Martin's play was one of several performances that almost led to the Rockets spoiling Morant's return following an eight-game suspension for conduct detrimental to the NBA.
Jalen Green added an efficient 31 points on 11-for-15 shooting, while Kevin Porter Jr. recorded his second-career triple-double with 14 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists. Alperen Sengun added 25 points and eight rebounds before fouling out.
Martin's physicality was on par with Grizzlies' All-Star forward Jaren Jackson Jr., who scored a season-high 37 points and 10 assists in the win.
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