The Thunder Test: Lakers vs Grizzlies Game Analysis
There’s a traffic jam forming in the NBA Western Conference around second place. The Lakers and Grizzlies are currently the #4 and #5 seeds, respectively, both with 44 points. Tensions are rising as we get closer to the end of the season and move to the playoffs starting April 19. Continue reading to see which team is the favorite to win in this Lakers vs Grizzlies prediction.
Both teams have one more game before they meet, and each needs one point to clinch a play-in spot in the playoffs. The Lakers should be able to beat the Bulls, but they had a disastrous showing on Saturday against Chicago, losing 146-115. Memphis faces the top-seed Thunder.
If both teams lose before they meet, at least one is guaranteed to make the play-in after their game this Saturday.
Struggles Continue: Los Angeles Lakers Recent Scores
Los Angeles has been struggling of late, giving other teams the time to pass by them in the standings. They’ve only won four of their last ten games as of Wednesday night, while the Rockets won 9 of their last 10 games to jump to #2 seed. The Warriors, Clippers, and Timberwolves are right behind with 41 points each. The Clippers have won seven of their last ten games, while the Warriors and Timberwolves have a 7-3 record.
They had a good showing against the Pacers last night, winning by the smallest margin of 120-119. If they stay consistent, they’ll pull off a win against the #9 seed Bulls before meeting the Grizzlies. But their defense has to show up. They can’t allow 146 points again.
Overpowering Jazz: Memphis Grizzlies Recent Scores
The Grizzlies won on Tuesday against the Jazz 140-103, but they dropped three games in a row before that to the Kings, Trail Blazers, and Clippers.
Memphis handily beat the Lakers on November 6, 131-114 at home, but LA was missing Anthony Davis. The Lakers evened the score on November 13 in LA, winning 128-123 with Davis. Does Davis make that much of a difference, or is it home-team advantage?
Lopsided Injuries: Lakers vs Grizzlies Prediction
The Lakers have had ongoing injuries this season with some of their best players, including LeBron James and Luka Dončić. But the official status is that only Maxi Kleber is out for the remainder of the season.
The Grizzlies aren’t so lucky. Brandon Clarke is out for the remainder of the season, while Jaren Jackson Jr. is day-to-day after an apparent face injury while playing against the Trail Blazers Tuesday night. Lamar Stevens, Zyon Pullin, Marvin Bagley, and Ja Morant are all officially out for the game against the Thunder. We’ll have to wait and check their status for Saturday’s game against the Grizzlies.
The potential injuries make it even more difficult to predict the outcome of this game. The Grizzlies’ saving grace is that they are the home team.
They could pull off the win if they have Morant’s explosiveness and Jackson’s defensive input. Expect a win for the home team, 119-116. Remember to follow us at PayPerHead to be aware of all NBA news.
