It seems that the Grizzlies team that we are watching in Orlando is not the same team we saw during the regular season. They have dropped both of their games so far, each against teams below them competing to move up. Their guys have not responded well to the pressure put on them, and things are a little bleak right now.
Ja Morant is continuing to perform well along with Jaren Jackson Jr., but they have crumbled under pressure on the defensive end in consecutive contests.
New Orleans has gotten blown out once and blew a late lead in another game. Their chances have taken a huge hit with their two losses, falling from 10th down to 12th in the West. Zion hasn’t been able to play enough to have an impact, and their defense has looked horrible.
This might be a do-or-die game for them already, given how well some of the other teams have performed. A loss could potentially send them down to 13th.
ODDS:
The spread for tonight’s matchup has the Pelicans set as a -3 (-110) favorite.
Can Memphis Finally Win One?
The tough part of their two defeats aside from them coming to their immediate competition is that they could be 2-0 right now. They allowed Portland to make a run when the game was on the line.
They came back from 11 down and even tied the game on a late Jackson Jr. three against the Spurs. And then, Dillon Brooks just stopped caring,
He bit on a pump fake from DeMar DeRozan 20 feet from the hoop with one second on the clock. This is a roster that needs to improve in several areas going into next season, but they had everything going for them to be able to win that game.
They have already defied expectations by entering the bubble with a .500 record, but if they don’t want the buck to stop here, they’d better get their act together. They are fortunate that Portland couldn’t beat Boston.
Pelicans Trying to Fly
Pelicans are used to soaring, flying through the air. These Pelicans players, except for Zion on his dunks, are certainly not.
They are as grounded as you could be after getting blown out by the Clippers in their last game. And given that they have an easy schedule ahead, this win is critical for momentum.
The San Antonio Spurs surprising 2-0 start bodes horribly for this team. If they cannot make it to #9 in the West, they will not have a shot to play into the playoffs for a crack at LeBron James.
And they need this as much as any team needs the playoff trip. Getting playoff experience for your young core is critical.
Brandon Ingram and Jrue Holiday have been excellent, while most other players have struggled. JJ Redick cannot be your go-to guy. Players need to step up. Now.
Grizzlies Snap Out of It and Win
The struggle is temporarily over. The Grizzlies will win a close one over New Orleans.
FREE PLAY: MEM +3
