What’s up with the Memphis Grizzlies?
The Memphis Grizzlies finally snapped its eight-game road losing streak with a win against the Houston Rockets. However, that really isn’t saying much since Houston has been one of the worst teams in the league the whole season.
The Grizzlies look like a completely different team when on the road and this is causing concern for them as the postseason nears. Looking at the Western Conference standings, if Memphis doesn’t get its act together, teams below them like the Sacramento Kings or Phoenix Suns can catch up in the standings.
For Memphis to improve and firmly establish itself as a true title contender, it will need to learn how to win on the road and be more consistent against more talented teams like the Nuggets.
It is easier said than done, though. Denver has had the upper hand against them, mainly because of the inside presence of Nikola Jokic. As the Grizzlies continue to play without the services of Steven Adams, the task of containing Jokic gets tougher and they will have to rely on Xavier Tillman to minimize the two-time MVP’s impact.
What’s up with the Denver Nuggets?
Although they have had to deal with some absences due to injuries recently, the Nuggets have managed to retain the top spot in the Western Conference. They have been able to maintain their high level of play in one way or another. The last meeting they had with the Grizzlies was the lone loss in their last seven matches.
Unlike their previous matchup, the Nuggets will have Aaron Gordon, Jamal Murray, and Jokic to avenge the earlier loss to the Grizzlies.
Jokic continues to lead the Nuggets with incredible numbers, averaging 24.6 points, 10.0 assists, and 11.7 rebounds per game. These numbers have made things difficult for Denver’s opponents. Murray has also been a big threat ever since he returned, averaging 20.1 points and 6.0 assists every night.
Prediction
I don’t doubt the Grizzlies’ level of play but their struggles on the road are worrying. Even though they were able to beat the Nuggets in their last encounter, Gordon and Murray didn’t suit up. They will have to improve on a lot of things if they want to snatch another win against the current best team in the West.
With their main scorers on the court tomorrow, the Nuggets may be able to bounce back from their previous loss and take a resounding victory over the Grizzlies.
Where to watch
You can catch the Grizzlies and Nuggets in action live tomorrow at 11:00 AM on NBA League Pass.
