MEMPHIS, Tenn.—Russell Westbrook had a season-high 36 points, Robert Covington also had a season best with 27 points and the Los Angeles Clippers beat the Memphis Grizzlies 141–132 on Wednesday night, March 29, to open a two-game set.

The teams—both short-handed Wednesday—will meet again Friday night in Memphis.

Westbrook made five 3-pointers without a miss and had 10 assists. Covington was 9 of 10 from the field, making all seven of his 3-point attempts.

Bones Hyland added 20 points for Los Angles, including 12 in the fourth quarter as the Clippers pulled away in the final seven minutes.

Ja Morant led the Grizzlies with 36 points and nine assists. Dillon Brooks added 30 points as all five Memphis starters finished in double figures. The Grizzlies had won seven in a row and 12 straight at home.

While the Clippers were already without Paul George as he recovers from a right knee sprain, Kawhi Leonard was a late scratch for personal reasons.

The Grizzlies sat a number of key players on the second night of a back-to-back. Morant was back after sitting out against Orlando on Tuesday night, but Jaren Jackson Jr., Desmond Bane, Tyus Jones and reserve John Konchar were declared out with various ailments.

Clippers: In addition to George and Leonard, Marcus Morris Sr. sat out his second game under health and safety protocol.  Terance Mann started in Leonard’s spot. G Norman Powell returned after missing 11 games with left shoulder subluxation. He scored 13 points.

Grizzlies: C Steven Adams missed his 30th game with a PCL sprain in his right knee. Former Clipper Luke Kennard, obtained in a trade-deadline deal, started his 12th game of the season, but first game in a Memphis uniform.

By Clay Bailey