Memphis Grizzlies hope to extend winning streak against Thunder
The Memphis Grizzlies (30-21) have been on a tear, and they hope to continue that against a struggling Oklahoma City Thunder (28-22) squad.
Who: Memphis Grizzlies @ Oklahoma City Thunder
Where: Chesapeake Energy Arena – Oklahoma City, OK
When: February 3rd – 7:00 PM CT
How To Watch: Fox Sports Southeast
How To Listen: 92.9 FM ESPN Memphis
Betting Odds: Oklahoma City Thunder (-1.5); Over/Under (204)
Memphis Grizzlies (30-21, 6th in the Western-Conference)
The Memphis Grizzlies have been hot these last three games, and it’s a beautiful sight. Their biggest concern in January was their lack of consistency, but February is already off to a promising start.
Related Story: January's biggest storylines
Mike Conley lit up the Suns on Monday night, scoring 38 points and connecting on seven of his 10 attempts from downtown. Marc Gasol’s play has been spectacular lately as well. Combine that with Conley finding his stroke, and all of the sudden, the NBA has a serious problem.
Memphis is now at full strength. The return of Brandan Wright gives ZBO, Gasol and JaMychal Green more rest, which could be valuable in the playoffs. Chandler Parsons’ minutes have increased the past few games.
In this matchup, look for Randolph to be the focal point of the Grizzlies offense along with Conley. Steven Adams is an underrated center, and he’s the kind of physical center who could give Gasol issues.
Oklahoma City Thunder (28-22, 7th in the Western-Conference)
While Memphis has been hot, the Thunder have struggled. They have dropped their last 3 games, including a 128-100 blowout loss to the Bulls. OKC definitely need a win, especially since the Grizz are their main competitor for playoff seeding.
Stopping Russell Westbrook is the key to beating the Thunder – but that’s much easier said than done. Westbrook has willed his team to wins all season long, and he’s not slowing down now. He is averaging a triple-double (30.7 points, 10.4 rebounds and 10.3 assists), and is a main contender for MVP.
Luckily for the Grizzlies, they’ve made Westbrook a non-factor before, and they certainly look to do it again in this game.
Victor Oladipo and Steven Adams have to bring their A-games if the Thunder want to contend with this red-hot Grizzlies squad.
Memphis Grizzlies
Prediction:
This game should be a close contest.
The Grizzlies could rise to the occasion like they have done many times this year. Conley, Gasol and Randolph could take-over and continue this win streak for Memphis.
Or
Russell Westbrook could do Russell Westbrook things and heat up just at the right time to cure his team’s struggles. Although, he definitely needs some help along the way from his sidekicks.
Unfortunately for Thunder fans, Memphis is starting to figure things out. They’ve turned several doubters into believers all year long and look for them to continue that tonight. Their key players will come ready to play and help the Grizz continue their outstanding play.