Memphis Grizzlies (2-9) vs. San Antonio Spurs (3-9)
Memphis Grizzlies vs. San Antonio Spurs 11/18/23 – As the NBA season advances, Memphis Grizzlies and San Antonio Spurs prepare to square off in what should be an intriguing matchup. Both teams currently stand with an identical two-win record at 2-9 each and both are looking to improve their standings; for those taking NBA picks today this game presents both challenges and opportunities; both have shown flashes of promise despite their current standings.
The Grizzlies, despite their losing record, have shown some sparks of brilliance, primarily through their offensive play. Averaging 108.5 points per game, they are a team that relies heavily on their shooting capabilities. However, their 43% field goal percentage indicates a need for more consistency. The team has been particularly active beyond the arc, attempting an average of 41.8 three-pointers per game but only converting at a 33.7% rate. Defensively, they’ve been less impressive, as evidenced by their struggles in recent games. The key for Memphis will be to tighten their defense while maintaining their offensive output.
San Antonio Spurs have shown their superior offense through an efficient 110.6 points per game average and their 46.5% field goal percentage and 34.9% shooting accuracy from three-point range. Unfortunately, their defensive shortcomings have proven costly; 16.2 turnovers per game and an inefficient steal rate (7.3 per game) has hurt them significantly; they must use their offensive capabilities while tightening up defensively to achieve success and improve their record.
Memphis Grizzlies vs. San Antonio Spurs 11/18/23 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, November 18, 2023 at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Frost Bank Center |
| TV: | BSSW |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Desmond Bane (SG) vs. Victor Wembanyama (C)
Desmond Bane has been one of the Grizzlies’ standout players this season. Averaging 25.5 points and 4.5 assists per game, Bane’s performance has been an asset for Memphis. Furthermore, his 1.5 steals per game and 0.9 blocks each contribute significantly to their defense – yet his 2.6 turnovers per game reveal room for improvement under pressure.
Victor Wembanyama, the Spurs center, has displayed promising talent. Averaging 18.6 points and 9.3 rebounds per game, Wembanyama makes his presence felt both on offense and defense with his 2.4 blocks per game – not to mention his high turnover rate of 3.9 per game which could use some improvement with regard to maintaining possession.
Bane and Wembanyama’s scoring prowess will be at the heart of this matchup, Bane’s agile shooting ability and agility could challenge Wembanyama’s defensive acumen while Wembanyama’s size and reach could trouble Bane in the paint area.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: Memphis Grizzlies -165, Total Odds: 223
The current betting odds favor the Grizzlies at -165, with an over/under total of 223. These odds reflect the Grizzlies’ potential to capitalize on their offensive strengths against the Spurs’ weaker defense.
Memphis Grizzlies Betting Trends
The Grizzlies have struggled against the spread (ATS), going 2-7 over their last 9 games. Furthermore, their matchup against San Antonio Spurs has not gone well with them going 0-5 ATS over five encounters; yet their trend of winning 7 outright away games against them.
San Antonio Spurs Betting Trends
The Spurs have shown a concerning trend over their last seven games, going 1-6 against the spread and going winless overall 0-7 SU record in that span. Bettors must consider that eight out of nine of their last games featured high scoring games where total game goes OVER; bettors need to consider this when wagering on them.
Memphis Grizzlies vs. San Antonio Spurs 11/18/23 Betting Picks
Given the trends and stats, my final thoughts lean towards a Memphis Grizzlies victory, albeit in a closely contested game. The Grizzlies’ offensive capabilities, led by Desmond Bane, should give them the edge over a Spurs team struggling with turnovers and defense. However, bettors should exercise caution given Memphis’ ATS record.
For those looking for expert exclusive picks, consider the over on the total points, given both teams’ tendency to engage in high-scoring games. Prop bets on individual player performances, particularly on Bane’s scoring and Wembanyama’s blocks and rebounds, could also offer value.
Free Pick and Prediction: Memphis Grizzlies 112, San Antonio Spurs 105