Memphis Grizzlies: Contributor score predictions in second game vs. Kings

The Memphis Grizzlies and Sacramento Kings clashed in a game that had deep play-in tournament implications on Thursday. The Grizzlies took care of business at home, knocking off an inferior Kings team.

That said, the game was close until the end. It took 30 points from Dillon Brooks and a 24-13 game out of Jonas Valanciunas to seal up a win in this one.

The Kings saw a particularly strong night out of Justin James, who scored 25 points in the matchup, a new career-high. In the second game, expect bigger games out of the normal stars of the team, especially if De’Aaron Fox returns.

The Kings may be bumped up, but there are a handful of talented players waiting to step into the spotlight.

The second game doesn’t have play-in implications anymore for the Kings, who were eliminated from play-in tournament contention with Thursday night’s loss. This one will still hold meaning for the Grizzlies though, who are fighting for an 8th seed.

Can the Memphis Grizzlies sweep the Kings? Our contributors weigh in.

Jack Williams (Site Expert): With the Kings out of play-in contention, there’s no reason for them to play Friday night’s game competitively. That said, don’t expect the same level of energy out of Sacramento on Friday night. The Grizzlies, on the other hand, are still playing for something, even if they’re locked into a play-in spot. Expect Memphis to beat the Kings purely based on energy levels. The Grizz should see big games from their big players in Jaren Jackson Jr. and Jonas Valanciunas.

Final Score: Memphis Grizzlies 124, Sacramento Kings 101

Taylor Goebel: With back-to-back games against the Kings, the Grizzlies will look to finish out their season on a high note. With how the current standings are, the Grizzlies will look to improve their seeding for the play-in tournament to perhaps get two chances to make the playoffs if they wind up being the 7 or 8 seed. The Kings are officially out of the play-in race after Thursday night’s game against the Grizzlies. Memphis should take care of business though and keep the Kings out of the tourney.

Final Score: Memphis Grizzlies 112, Sacramento Kings 104