A David Roddy 3-pointer with 2:05 left in the fourth quarter quieted the Madison Square Garden crowd. The Memphis Grizzlies were down four points against the New York Knocks after trailing by 28.

But even the most die-hard Grizzlies fan would have had trouble guessing the five-player lineup with which Memphis was closing the game.

The group consisted of five players who have spent extensive time in the G League in the past two seasons. Along with Roddy, Memphis trotted out GG Jackson, Jacob Gilyard, Vince Williams Jr. and Trey Jemison.

New York made a 3-pointer on its next possession to defeat Memphis 123-113. The Grizzlies (18-33) have lost six games in a row, but the closing lineup and minutes distribution Tuesday was indicative of a team wanting to give its youthful players an opportunity.

Luke Kennard, John Konchar and Santi Aldama were the most experienced Grizzlies players to suit up against New York. Only Konchar finished in the top three on the Grizzlies in minutes played Tuesday night.

Those minutes should be an indication that the Grizzlies, as currently constructed due to injuries, are emphasizing getting inexperienced players more opportunities.

“This was a great learning opportunity, but I’m super proud of this group coming out of the fourth quarter,” Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins said.

Williams, who led the Grizzlies with 19 points, has solidified himself as an impactful player during the past 30 games. Jackson, a 19-year-old tantalizing prospect, finished with 16 points and made three 3-pointers while being a major contributor in the comeback efforts.

Jemison is on a 10-day contract, but the center started his second straight game. Only Williams played more minutes, and Jemison finished with 12 points, seven rebounds and two blocks.

But as always, just like a talented young group can show flashes of excellence, there were also moments of discombobulated basketball. Memphis finished the game with 19 turnovers that led to 21 points. The Grizzlies finished with only six points off turnovers.

With the exception of the experienced Konchar, each starter finished with multiple turnovers. Derrick Rose, who often spoke during the preseason about how finding a rhythm and chemistry with his new teammates was important, had three turnovers off the bench.

“We have guys who have never played together, and they are trying to figure it out,” Jenkins said. ". . . We played in some crowds too much and played rushed but then we got better as the game went on. Overall, great learning for our guys, but turnovers were definitely a factor tonight.”

Rose left the game in the third quarter due to a right ankle injury. If he misses any time, Scotty Pippen Jr., a 23-year old point guard getting his first extended NBA opportunity, will be next up.

TRADE DEADLINE: What's the future of the center position for the Grizzlies after Steven Adams trade?

In reality, some of these young players won’t be on the Grizzlies' roster next season when many of the injured stars return, and the team shifts the focus back to championship aspirations. But as of now, the goal in Memphis should be finding which players could stick around and make an impact around the team’s core.

The Knicks game was the latest opportunity for the youthful group to rise to the occasion, and there will likely be many more.

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Grizzlies' injuries creating opportunities for team's youthful players