NBA Handicapping Predictions – Grizzlies vs Warriors
Memphis had a terrific run in the NBA playoffs last year. This season started off slowly for the Grizzlies, but they have now won eight of their last nine to get to 22-15 on the season.
NBA Basketball Matchup: Memphis Grizzlies vs. Golden State Warriors
10:30 PM EST
NBA Gambling Odds from Bookmaker
NBA Betting Favorite: Golden State -1
Over/Under: 194.5
Golden State is adjusting to new head coach Mark Jackson. The Warriors are 15-20 on the season, but they are usually tough to beat at home.
The Grizzlies have five players averaging double figures in points per game. Rudy Gay leads the team in scoring at 18.9 points per game. Marc Gasol is having the best season of his career.
Gasol is averaging 15.4 points and 9.9 boards per game this year. Mike Conley doesn’t get the recognition that he probably deserves, but he is a very good point guard.
Conley averages 13.5 points, 6.9 assists, and 2.6 steals per game. The Grizzlies have improved defensively this year as well, which has been a big key for them. Memphis allows just 91.9 points per game. [soliloquy id=”82219″]
Golden State is led by Monta Ellis. Ellis averages 22.2 points and 5.9 assists per game. He is one of the most exciting players in the NBA. David Lee doesn’t get as much recognition, but he is a very reliable big man who regularly puts up double-doubles.
Stephen Curry has been banged up much of the year, but he is a 46% shooter from beyond the three-point line. Keep an eye on Klay Thompson as well. Thompson is a rookie who has shown signs of coming on of late. Mark Jackson has tried to turn this team into a better defensive team.
Golden State is slightly better on the defensive end than last year, but they still allow 99.8 points per game.
Memphis has beaten Golden State twice this year. The Grizzlies have a more complete team, and I think they’ll edge out another win here.
Prediction: Memphis 96 Golden State 94
