The Memphis Grizzlies hope to avoid a four-game skid, but it’ll be tough against the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder.

Catch the game tomorrow at 10:30 AM, Manila time.

AWAY: Oklahoma City Thunder (50-11, 23-7 AWAY)

Projected starting five:

  • Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
  • Cason Wallace
  • Lu Dort
  • Jalen Williams
  • Chet Holmgren

The Thunder are rolling, riding a four-game winning streak (136.8 PPG, +11.8 net rtg) and looking to extend their dominance over the Grizzlies, whom they’ve beaten twice this season. Their most recent victory over Memphis on February 9th was a convincing 125-112 win, showcasing their offensive firepower. 

All-Star and top MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is in peak form, coming off a 51-point explosion against the Rockets, while no.2 man Jalen Williams has been equally impressive, dropping 41 points on the Spurs earlier this week. Further, the Thunder’s frontcourt duo of Chet Holmgren and Isiah Hartenstein has been a revelation, providing versatility on both ends of the floor. Then, second-year role player Cason Wallace has emerged as a key contributor, averaging 13.2 points and 2.0 steals in his last five games. With their offense humming and confidence soaring, the Thunder aim to continue their winning ways and march on through.

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HOME: Memphis Grizzlies (38-23, 22-9 HOME)

Projected starting five:

  • Ja Morant
  • Desmond Bane
  • Jaylen Wells
  • Jaren Jackson Jr. (out) / GG Jackson
  • Zach Edey 

The Memphis Grizzlies are in a tough spot, having lost three straight games—all on heartbreaking game-winners—and posting a 3-7 record in their last 10 outings. Injuries have also complicated matters, with their big man and two-way weapon Jaren Jackson Jr. doubtful due to an ankle injury and Ja Morant’s status uncertain after missing the last two games. Morant struggled in his last meeting with OKC too, shooting just 6/19 for 16 points. Desmond Bane has been a bright spot, leading the team with 21.6 points per game on 51.2% shooting over the last 24 games, but the Grizz will obviously need more support to overcome their recent woes. Facing the top-seeded, red-hot Thunder team, Memphis must find a way to tighten their defense and execute down the stretch to avoid another disappointing loss.

With the absences and injuries, veteran Luke Kennard, second-year forward GG Jackson, and rookie Zach Edey could play a pivotal role.

PICKS:

Spread: Thunder (-8)

Over/Under: Under (250.5)

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