Brendan Hausen led Memphis with 21 points in a 96-82 defeat to the Atlanta Hawks at the Salt Lake City Summer League on Tuesday. The Iowa product shot 5-for-13 from the floor, knocked down five triples on 5-of-11 shooting from beyond the arc and was flawless at the free-throw line, finishing 3-for-3. He also handed out two assists and grabbed a single rebound in 28 minutes of play after earning the start.

Hausen's five three-pointers paced the game and supplied nearly all of Memphis' offensive punch in a contest that leaned heavily on defense. His 38.5 percent field-goal shooting reflected the early rhythm many rookies chase, while the willingness to attempt 11 threes highlighted the floor-spacing role the Grizzlies covet from their wings. The modest two-assist total suggested his usage stayed tethered to scoring rather than creation.

That skill set fits the pace-and-space principles Memphis employs to create driving lanes. Hausen's perimeter pull stretches defenses and opens the paint for quicker guards, an element the Grizzlies have prioritized as they build complementary pieces around their core. His three-point volume, even at 45.5 percent in this outing, offers a foundation worth monitoring as efficiency becomes the next measuring stick.

The showing comes as Memphis prepares its summer-league group for the Las Vegas portion of the schedule. The Grizzlies face the Chicago Bulls on Friday in what amounts to the next proving ground for young talent fighting for roster consideration. Hausen's hot perimeter shooting supplies evidence that the organization can identify scoring wings who project as useful depth.

Hausen's next test arrives against a Bulls team expected to field a physical defensive group. Continued production from deep could strengthen his case for a two-way contract or extended G League look, while any dip in efficiency will prompt closer scrutiny of his off-ball movement and defensive positioning within Memphis' tempo-based system. Development in those areas will decide whether he earns consistent minutes or remains on the fringe.

If Hausen sustains the perimeter threat he flashed Tuesday, he could develop into the reliable stretch wing the Grizzlies have sought. His ability to convert threes at volume would keep defenses honest and preserve space for interior attacks, a trait that carries elevated value in a league defined by spacing and pace.