Memphis Grizzlies vs Orlando Magic Preview and Prediction
The Memphis Grizzlies look to rebound tonight against the Orlando Magic after letting one slip away to the Charlotte Hornets.
Marc Gasol and Mike Conley shot horribly from the field Monday night. They’ll need to turn it around in a hurry when the Magic coming to town. The Magic are one of the highest scoring teams in the league right now. They’re second only to Golden State in scoring average at 116.9 points per game. In addition, they’re first in the NBA in 3-point percentage at 44.1 percent per game and fourth in 3-pointers makes per game with 12.7. Conley and Gasol will need to be on their A game to keep this good start rolling.
The Memphis Grizzlies are definitely well-equipped to put the Magic in their place. It’s good that the Magic’s play are giving the people of Orlando something to enjoy in October other than Halloween Horror Night, but expect Memphis to knock them off. Memphis’ top-notch defense should expose their offense. The Grizzlies are currently third in the NBA in scoring defense at 95.6 per game and first in defensive field goal percentage at 39.9. Defense has always been a part of Memphis’ culture, especially inside the “Grindhouse.”
The loss versus the Hornets wasn’t terrible, but it wasn’t a good look — considering how well the team played so far. Even though Conley and Gasol were off majority of the night, they were still able keep a solid lead until the fourth quarter. All they had to do was close them out, but Kemba Walker happened.
Memphis should use this Orlando game to keep their momentum progressing forward. A lot of teams in the West are still working out the kinks. This is the perfect time for Memphis to capitalize with a great start. That way, when the other teams get their chemistry in order, Memphis will be ahead of the pack instead of in the mix. Memphis need to stop playing down to its competition and eat on the weaker teams.
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Prediction
Memphis 108 Orlando 100
One thing for certain Memphis isn’t known for losing games in bunches. Expect Captain Clutch and Big Spain to rebound with a vengence. The bench has been playing great basketball this season. Chandler Parsons appears to finally have some bounce in his step. He’s moving fluidly without hesistations, and if he can continue to improve, he might be worth his contract after all. Keep an eye on Parsons tonight as he’s been a highlight waiting to happen these last two games.
The young guys always a deserve a close eye. They’ve been improving at a good pace. All they need is more time and game experience to continue growing. Jarell Martin has been doing so well the team decided to pick up his fourth year option.
The combination of home court, Memphis defense and their knack for coming back from mistakes should be enough to give fans faith that Memphis will pull put the win.