Action never waned in the NBA on Wednesday night as the LA Clippers knocked off Miami in overtime and LeBron James’ late-game issues continued. That drama may carry over to Thursday when the New York Knicks open TNT’s doubleheader in Memphis against the Grizzlies.
After knocking off top-seeded San Antonio in last year’s playoffs and with the return of Rudy Gay, Memphis (3-6) was supposed to be a contender this season.
But injuries have sidetracked the Grizzlies, who are desperately missing forwards Zach Randolph (MCL tear) and Darrell Arthur (torn Achilles tendon).
The Grizzlies will face a stacked Knicks’ frontcourt – dubbed the best in the league by Magic Johnson – featuring Carmelo Anthony, Amar’e Stoudemire, and offseason acquisition Tyson Chandler.
New York’s 85-79 home victory over a fatigued Philadelphia team playing its third game in as many nights 
was its fourth straight win and first with 85 points since an 85-78 victory over Chicago in November 2007.
Anthony averaged 29.5 in New York’s two meetings with Memphis last season. Toney Douglas, who was recently replaced in the starting lineup by standout rookie Iman Shumpert, averaged 23.5 points and 6.5 assists against the Grizzlies last season.
Arthur, Tony Allen and Mike Conley all averaged 18 points against New York.
Gay did not practice Wednesday due to left hip soreness. New York’s Baron Davis is still out with herniated disc.