Memphis Grizzlies (0-6) vs. Portland Trail Blazers (3-3)
Memphis Grizzlies vs. Portland Trail Blazers 11/5/23– The NBA season continues to roll forward, presenting an intriguing matchup as the winless Memphis Grizzlies square off against the .500 Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday, November 5, 2023. The game is set to unfold at the Moda Center at the Rose Quarter, with tip-off scheduled for 9:00 PM ET, promising a showdown that will capture the attention of bettors and fans alike, all on the lookout for elite NBA free picks.
The Grizzlies’ opening to the season paints a grim picture. Averaging 107.7 points per game does not stand out when coupled with their lackluster 43.3 field goal percentage. Their scoring from beyond the arc hasn’t been a saving grace either, with a mere 31.7 3-point field goal percentage despite hoisting an average of 41.5 attempts per game. The defensive metrics offer little comfort; while their 44 rebounds per game stand solid, the 15.5 turnovers per game and the average of 22 fouls per contest reflect a team struggling to maintain composure under pressure.
On the other side of the court, the Trail Blazers are treading water at 3-3. They are posting 105 points per game, and while they shoot slightly worse from the field than the Grizzlies at 42.8%, they’ve been more judicious with their three-point attempts. Portland excels at the free-throw line with an 81.3% success rate, potentially a crucial factor in a close game. Their rebounding is commendable, particularly on the offensive glass, averaging 13.2 offensive rebounds per game. Like Memphis, turnovers are a concern, but their fouling rate is marginally lower, which might give them a slight edge in a tight contest.
Memphis Grizzlies vs. Portland Trail Blazers 11/5/23 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, November 5, 2023 at 9:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Moda Center at the Rose Quarter |
| TV: | ROOT Sports NW |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Desmond Bane (SG) vs. Shaedon Sharpe (SG)
Desmond Bane has emerged as a beacon of hope for the Grizzlies. With 26 points per game and maintaining a strong presence on the defensive end with 2.2 steals per game, Bane’s performance has been a silver lining in Memphis’s cloudy start. His ability to create his shot and his defensive tenacity will be crucial, though his 2.7 turnovers per game highlight an area that needs tightening up.
Shaedon Sharpe, meanwhile, is commanding attention in Portland with an impressive 20.5 points and 5.5 rebounds per game. His time on the floor is a testament to his endurance and importance to the Blazers. However, his assist-to-turnover ratio suggests room for improvement in ball handling and playmaking.
The clash of these two shooting guards presents an exciting duel. Bane’s experience and scoring prowess will challenge Sharpe, who has shown flashes of brilliance early in his career. Their performance will likely play a pivotal role in the game’s outcome.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: Memphis Grizzlies -137, Total Odds: 218.5
The odds suggest a tight contest, with the Grizzlies favored despite their winless start, an interesting point of contention for bettors. The total at 218.5 indicates expectations of a relatively high-scoring game, though both teams have shown a propensity for unders in recent matchups.
Memphis Grizzlies Betting Trends
The Grizzlies’ betting trends are concerning, with a 1-6 record against the spread (ATS) in their last seven games. They have failed to win outright in their last seven and have not covered in their last six against Portland. These trends point to a team that has not only struggled to win but also to keep games close, a red flag for bettors.
Portland Trail Blazers Betting Trends
Portland’s betting trends paint a mixed picture. While they’ve gone over the total in six of their last nine, they hold a disappointing 5-15 straight up (SU) record in their last 20 games. The Blazers have struggled particularly at home, with a 1-11 SU record in their last 12 games at the Moda Center, and the under has hit in four of their last five home games against Memphis.
Memphis Grizzlies vs. Portland Trail Blazers 11/5/23 Betting Picks
Considering the above trends and stats, this matchup is a tale of two narratives: the Grizzlies’ search for a turnaround and the Blazers’ quest for consistency. Memphis, despite their woeful record, is favored, a nod perhaps to their higher scoring average and the impact of Desmond Bane. However, the Trail Blazers’ strong free-throw shooting and offensive rebounding could keep them within reach or even secure them a win.
When it comes to handicapping top services, the smart money might be on Portland to cover, if not win outright. Prop bets on individual player performances, particularly Bane and Sharpe, could yield dividends. The under also presents an attractive option, considering the historical trends when these two teams face off in Portland.
Free Pick and Prediction: Memphis Grizzlies 108, Portland Trail Blazers 110