Golden State Warriors vs. Memphis Grizzlies Preview and Prediction (3/9/23)
Moneyline: Warriors -140, Grizzlies +120
Spread: Warriors -2.5, Grizzlies +2.5
Total: 235.5
Golden State Warriors vs. Memphis Grizzlies Betting Odds Breakdown
The Golden State Warriors will be making a trip to Memphis to take on the Grizzlies on Thursday.
Golden State is coming into this game as the favorite at -2.5, and the over/under is sitting at 235.5 points. Along with that, the moneyline is sitting at -140 for Golden State and +120 for Memphis.
Golden State Warriors Preview
Golden State is coming into this game at 34-32, which has them sitting at fifth in the western conference.
The reigning NBA champions have had a bit of a disappointing season so far, but they should still be able to make the playoffs this season, however, it is a very close race in the western conference, so anything can happen. The biggest problem that Golden State has had this season is that they have been terrible on the road. When the Warriors are playing at home this season, they are 27-7, while they are 7-25 when they are on the road. They have not played well at all on the road, and that could very well be a factor in this game as they are in Memphis.
The Warriors’ defense hasn’t been amazing this season, but it also hasn’t been bad, as they are 15th in the league for defensive efficiency. What’s good news for their defense in this game is that they will not have to worry about stopping Ja Morant on defense, as he is away from the team indefinitely after a social media post he made over the weekend. But, that means they will have to be careful with other players like Desmond Bane, who is averaging about 22 points, five rebounds, and four assists. Although Golden State doesn’t have to worry about Morant, they still need to be careful with players like Desmond Bane who can take over games.
Memphis Grizzlies Preview
Memphis is coming into this game at 38-26, which has them sitting at second in the western conference.
Like said above, the biggest story going into this game for Memphis is that they will be without Ja Morant. He has been such a big part of their team this season, as he is averaging about 27 points, six rebounds, and eight assists. He has been an important piece for Memphis both offensively and defensively, and it’s going to be difficult for the Grizzlies to get some wins while he is out. But with him gone, that just means that other players on Memphis will have to step up during his absence.
One thing that will end up being huge for Memphis going into this game is that they are first in the league for defensive efficiency. They’re going to need it against a team like the Golden State Warriors that can shoot the lights out on any given night. But, they’re defense will end up taking a hit with Morant out. Ja is a pretty solid defender, so now that will make it much more difficult for the Grizzlies to guard someone like Stephen Curry. It won’t be an easy night either way, but the absence of Ja Morant is so devastating for Memphis.
Winner Prediction: Golden State Warriors -2.5
The Golden State Warriors have had a difficult time on the road this season, but it wouldn’t be surprising if they got the win over Memphis in this one.
Memphis only has a record of 4-7 when Ja Morant is out this season, so you should expect the Warriors to take this one.
