Game preview: Grizzlies take on Sixers in first game after break

The Grizzlies make their return from the All-Star break to face a formidable Sixers team. Can they start the back half of their season strong? Or will they continue to disappoint?

Finally, the NBA has come back to our living room tv screens! Or bedroom. Or man cave. The point is the NBA is back. Honestly, it couldn’t have come back at a better time. We’ve listened to pundits argue about load management for what feels like two weeks now. More importantly, your Memphis Grizzlies return tonight against the Philadelphia 76ers in what should be an entertaining, nationally televised game. Let’s preview it, shall we?

Season Series, keys to victory, and prediction

Back on December 2nd, the Memphis Grizzlies defeated the Philadelphia 76ers 117-109. Steven Adams, who will not be playing tonight due to injury, grabbed 16 rebounds, while Ja Morant put on a masterclass with 28 points and eight rebounds. The 76ers will look to even the season series tonight at home.

In their previous matchup, Dillon Brooks poured in 17 points on 44% shooting from the field. He was also a +8 on the court. That’s called good efficient Dillon. The Grizzlies have won the last three out of four games before the break, so it’s important for them to keep their momentum going in a positive manner. Their defense has maintained a high level, while their shooting has increased, and become more efficient as well. They’ll have a tall task in slowing down MVP candidate Joel Embiid, especially without Steven Adams. 

The Memphis Grizzlies looked a lot like the Memphis Grizzlies we are used to seeing on the court in the last 4 games. Coming out of that five-game-losing streak starting on January 20th against the Lakers, they seemed to have found their way of playing their brand of basketball again. It’s a lot to ask, but I like the Grizzlies to win this game tonight on the road. It’ll make for a great statement road win as well. We’ll see tonight once tip-off comes.