Memphis Grizzlies vs Houston Rockets – NBA Preview – Jan 13, 2025

The Memphis Grizzlies face the Houston Rockets at the Toyota Center on Monday, January 13, 2025, at 8:00 PM ET. Memphis (25-14) sits in third place in the Western Conference, just behind Houston (25-12), who holds the second spot. Both teams are strong contenders in the West and enter the game with high stakes for playoff positioning.
The Rockets edged the Grizzlies 119-115 in Memphis on January 9, powered by Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun, who combined for 59 points. Memphis will aim to even the season series while Houston looks to solidify its dominance at home, where they are 13-6 this season.
Memphis Grizzlies Preview – Morant and Jackson Stepping Up
Memphis comes into this matchup after a narrow 127-125 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves. Jaren Jackson Jr. has been outstanding, averaging 26.9 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 3.7 assists over his last 10 games. Against Minnesota, he recorded 33 points and eight rebounds, continuing his strong form.
Ja Morant struggled in the previous game, scoring only 12 points on 5-of-19 shooting, but delivered in the clutch with critical baskets late in the game. Despite his recent shooting woes, Morant remains a proven playmaker, averaging 24.2 points and 8.7 assists per game this season.
The Grizzlies’ defense will be tested against Houston’s dynamic offense. Memphis has allowed 115.6 points per game over their last five contests, and improving their defensive efficiency will be key in slowing down Sengun and Green.
Houston Rockets Preview – Green and Sengun Leading the Charge
The Rockets are riding high after wins over Washington and Memphis last week. Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun have emerged as a formidable duo, combining for 59 points in their win over Memphis. Sengun dominated with 32 points and 14 rebounds, while Green added 27 points and three steals.
Houston’s offense has been one of the league’s best, averaging 123 points per game (first in the NBA). They rank second in field goal percentage at 48.2% and are efficient from beyond the arc, shooting 36.8%. Coach Ime Udoka emphasized the importance of Green and Sengun working cohesively, which has paid dividends in recent games.
Defensively, the Rockets are strong, holding opponents to 107.1 points per game (third in the NBA). Their ability to control the boards and force turnovers has been pivotal, and they’ll look to continue that trend against Memphis.
Betting Prediction
Houston is a 2.5-point favorite with a total set at 235.5 points. The Rockets’ home dominance and recent form from Green and Sengun give them the edge. However, Memphis’ strong play from Jackson and the potential for a bounce-back game from Morant could keep it close.
Expect a high-scoring affair given both teams’ offensive capabilities. The predicted final score is Houston 121, Memphis 116, with the Rockets covering the spread and the total going under.
Pick: Houston -2.5, Under 235.5