Tonight’s matchup at the FedEx Forum (8:00 PM ET) features two teams in “rebuild-on-the-fly” mode, both missing significant star power. The Grizzlies are slight home favorites, but this game has “trap” written all over it due to Memphis’ recent travel schedule.
Game Details
- Spread: Grizzlies -1.5 to -2.5
- Total (O/U): 239.5
- TV: FDSSE (FanDuel Sports Network Southeast)
The Matchup: Key Factors
- The “Travel Hangover”: Memphis is returning from a week-long international stint in London and Germany. Historically, the first game back from an overseas trip is a major fatigue spot for NBA teams. Atlanta, while on a four-game skid, has been stateside and possesses a clear rest advantage.
- A New-Look Atlanta: Since trading Trae Young two weeks ago, the Hawks have handed the keys to Jalen Johnson. He has responded by averaging a staggering 23.0 PPG, 10.2 RPG, and 8.0 APG. Alongside him, CJ McCollum (acquired from Washington) and Nickeil Alexander-Walker provide a steady veteran backcourt that has actually seen the Hawks’ three-point attempts increase post-Trae.
- Grizzlies’ Thin Bench: While Ja Morant is back and fresh off a 24-point, 13-assist game, his supporting cast is decimated. They are missing Zach Edey, Brandon Clarke, Scotty Pippen Jr., and Ty Jerome. This forces heavy minutes onto rookie Cedric Coward and center Jock Landale, who will have their hands full with Atlanta’s Onyeka Okongwu.
- Interior vs. Exterior: Atlanta’s defense is porous (25th in PPG allowed), but they lead the league in assists (31.0 per game). If they can move the ball and exploit a Memphis defense that cedes a high number of three-pointers (25th in the league), they can outpace the Grizzlies’ star power.
Injury Report
- Hawks: Kristaps Porzingis (Out – Achilles), Zaccharie Risacher (Out – Knee), N’Faly Dante (Out – Season).
- Grizzlies: Zach Edey (Out – Ankle), Brandon Clarke (Out – Calf), Scotty Pippen Jr. (Out – Toe), Santi Aldama (Doubtful – Knee).
Pick: UNDER 239.5 (-108) at Betonline Sportsbook. Sign up HERE for a $250 Bonus!