Predicting the Grizzlies' first 10 games of the 2024-25 season

The most anticipated season in the history of the Grizzlies is officially here and the first 10 games will determine what the fanbase has to look forward to. 82 games is a long season but as evidenced by the team's 2-8 record to begin last season, the climb back up can be an impossible task, especially in the Western Conference.

The Grizzlies began the 2022-23 season with a 7-3 record and the 2021-22 season with a 6-4 record in their first 10 games of those seasons. Both seasons ended with the team finishing with the second-best record in the Western Conference.

With the season starting tonight in Salt Lake City, Utah, here is a prediction for how the Grizzlies will fare in their first 10 games:

1. @ Utah Jazz, Wednesday, October 23rd: Win (1-0)

This is a tough matchup to begin the regular because of the tough road environment mixed with the high altitude. However, taking care of business against a team that isn't considered to be competitive in the Western Conference sets a good standard for the rest of the season.

2. @ Houston Rockets, Friday, October 25th: Loss (1-1)

The Grizzlies' first road test against a formidable Western Conference rival will present a challenge. The expected absences of Jaren Jackson Jr. and Luke Kennard will hurt the team against a fully loaded and paid Rockets team.

3. vs Orlando Magic, Saturday, October 26th: Win (2-1)

The second night of a back-to-back is always tough, especially when traveling is involved and both opponents are good. The likely return of Jaren Jackson Jr. will give the team an extra boost to win their home opener.

4. vs Chicago Bulls, Monday, October 28th: Win (3-1)

Again, taking care of business against the weaker opponents has to be a priority, especially at home.

5. vs Brooklyn Nets, Wednesday, October 30th: Win (4-1)

The Grizzlies likely won't go undefeated against all teams that are worse than them but a return of a familiar face they traded this summer (Ziaire William) should be enough motivation to take this one.

6. vs Milwaukee Bucks, Thursday, October 31st: Loss (4-2)

Back-to-backs at home are not as tough as road games but the Bucks have revenge on their minds after losing to the Grizzlies twice last season.

7. at Philadelphia 76ers, Saturday, November 2nd: Loss (4-3)

The Grizzlies' first two-day rest should have them rejuvenated in this one. However, the 76ers are an Eastern Conference contender, and the uncertainty of the status of Vince Williams Jr. and Luke Kennard makes this one tough to overcome if they remain out.

8. at Brooklyn Nets, Monday, November 4th: Win (5-3)

Losing two games in a row to good teams will be the motivation the Grizzlies need to take care of business against the Nets and sweep the season series.

9. vs Los Angeles Lakers, Wednesday, November 6th: Win (6-3)

The Grizzlies' first national TV game that's not on NBA TV will be one they get up for, especially against the team that eliminated them from the playoffs the last time they made it.

10. vs Washington Wizards, Friday, November 8th: Win (7-3)

Taking care of lesser opponents is even more important at home, so expect the Grizzlies to stay in attack mode in this one. They might even have some extra bodies back in the rotation by this game.