The Memphis Grizzlies host the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday night at FedExForum. Tip-off is set for 9:30 PM ET with both teams locked in a close battle for playoff seeding in the Western Conference.
Memphis is 47-32 and sits sixth in the West. Minnesota is right behind at 46-33 in eighth. Only two games separate third and eighth in the standings. Memphis has won both matchups this season, including a 108-106 win at home in January.
Grizzlies Preview – Edey Anchoring a Strong Finish
The Grizzlies have won three in a row and are 7-3 over their last 10 games. They picked up a dominant 124-100 win over the Hornets on Tuesday. Ja Morant led the team with 28 points and 8 assists, while Desmond Bane added 19 points.
Zach Edey has become a force inside, posting 17 points and 19 rebounds last game after grabbing 21 boards against Detroit. The 7-foot-4 rookie has filled the gap left by the injured Jaylen Wells, who is out with a wrist injury. Jaren Jackson Jr. adds defensive strength, averaging over 1 block and 5 rebounds per game.
Memphis averages 113.9 points per game and holds opponents to 45.5% shooting. They rank top five in blocks and steals and have a 25-14 record at home. The Grizzlies also rank sixth in first-quarter scoring and have been strong starters throughout the season.
Timberwolves Preview – Focused After a Missed Chance
Minnesota enters off a tough loss to Milwaukee, blowing a 24-point lead in the fourth quarter. That ended a five-game winning streak, but they are still just one game back of the Grizzlies. Anthony Edwards had 25 points but struggled from the field in the loss.
Edwards leads Minnesota with over 25 points per game and is supported by Rudy Gobert, who averages nearly 13 rebounds. Julius Randle adds scoring and rebounding on the wing, while Jaden McDaniels contributes on both ends. Mike Conley leads the offense and sets the tone as the veteran point guard.
The Timberwolves score 113.9 points per game and shoot 37.7% from deep. They rank third in field goal defense and sixth in opponent scoring. Minnesota is 23-17 on the road and has hit the fourth quarter moneyline in 37 of their last 50 games, showing late-game strength.
Betting Prediction
Memphis is a small favorite, and home court gives them an edge. They’ve already beaten Minnesota twice this season and are playing their best basketball of the year. Morant, Bane, and Edey give the Grizzlies a solid core heading into the postseason.
Still, Minnesota’s defense and depth give them a real shot, especially with no injuries reported. Expect a close, physical game with both teams motivated. The Timberwolves should be able to keep this one tight and are worth taking with the points.
Pick: Minnesota Timberwolves +2.5 over the Memphis Grizzlies.
This should be an excellent game in the National Basketball Association. Both of these teams are heading to the postseason out of the Western Conference. Both teams can play very competitive basketball games and contend with anyone. Expect a great battle.
Enjoy the game and best of luck with all your NBA betting!
