Grizzlies (22-41) vs. Thunder (43-19)
Memphis Grizzlies vs. Oklahoma City Thunder 3/10/24 – As the NBA season heats up, an intriguing matchup is set to occur at Paycom Center this Sunday between Memphis Grizzlies and Oklahoma City Thunder. Memphis are hoping to regain their form and advance from their current lowly conference standings, while Oklahoma City are looking to cement their position atop. It isn’t simply two teams with divergent fortunes clashing; rather it provides valuable insight for multi-handicapper picks.
The Grizzlies were unable to find an acceptable level of steady reliability. Top tier teams’ defense sidelines 106.2 points per game and a 43.8% field goal. It often puts their offensive efficiency to the test. Turnovers are also not a small matter as they average 14.2 per game, and preventing their recurrence has been a concern. Despite the fact that their offence is limited by their inability to get a shot (3.6 3-pointers and 6.2 dunks per game), their defence, epitomized by 7.8 steals and 6.2 blocks a game, reveals their ability to throw a spanner in the works of high-scoring teams.
While the OKC Thunder have been a powerhouse, a remarkably powerful team, their scoring average is 121 points per game and an astonishing 50.1% from the field. They are well-rounded offensively, which can be seen from their 39.5% points from 3-point shots and 83.3% free throw from the line. Thunder’ defense is another key strength with great capabilities to obtain 8.3 steals and 6.7 blocks per game and the team perfectly knows how to challenge opponents on both sides of the hardwood.
Memphis Grizzlies vs. Oklahoma City Thunder 3/10/24 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, March 10, 2024, at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Paycom Center |
| TV: | BSOK |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Jaren Jackson Jr. (PF) vs. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (PG)
The Grizzlies’ power forward player, Jaren Jackson Jr. has been unbelievable this season, with 22.6 points per game averages and almost 6 rebounds. He (Memphis) has the best interior defense and blocking (1.6 per game) in his club. He may also pose a risk in terms of his 2.4 turnovers per game and foul trouble (3.5 per game). Jackson is a decisive aspect of the Grizzlies’ attempt to meet the Thunder.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, in comparison, has been outstanding for the Thunder and he is arguably amongst the league’s brightest prospects. Besides, 31.1 points a game is on average with 6.5 assists. This makes him the key player in Oklahoma City’s game. However, his defensive skills in addition to 2.1 steals and 1 block per game are an ideal match for his offensive ability, making him a good player on both ends of the court.
While the interaction occurs between the opening two players, the way the game is played now will certainly be in the change process. Jackson’ defense will be under pressure to stop Gilgeous-Alexander who will be exploiting the offense. This matchup most highly is going to be determined by whether Jackson can limit Gilgeous-Alexander’s impact while positively contributing to the Grizzlies.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds for this matchup are yet to be determined, but given the Thunder’s impressive record and the Grizzlies’ struggles, it’s expected that Oklahoma City will be the favorite. Bettors should keep an eye on the spread and moneyline as they become available, considering the Thunder’s high-scoring offense and solid defense.
Memphis Grizzlies Betting Trends
The road games were a challenge for the Grizzlies but they showed us their resilience by going 19-13 on the road, which means that they are prepared to play against a competitor. On the other hand, the overall defensive inconsistency, as well as the fact that they have gone over total in 4/5 of their last 5 games, are showing signs of a possible way that they might struggle to contain high-scoring teams.
Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Trends
The Thunder are less consistent against the spread, finishing,17-14, in away games. But they also have this effect of always scoring high, plus they have a strong defense and this makes them very impressive opponents, maybe even the strongest on their home court.
Memphis Grizzlies vs. Oklahoma City Thunder 3/10/24 Betting Picks
Despite the contrast of forms and abilities of the teams on both sides of the court, the Oklahoma City Thunder still remain the leading favorites to win this match. Offensive prowess and defensive solidity of the Warriors should be a recipe for stepping over the Grizzlies. On the other hand, Memphis’s record in ATS and against the spread in away games implies that they might not go down without a battle.
Among the top NBA free tips, the experts predict that the Thunder might go for a straight win, but if the margin is fair, the Grizzlies will be able to face the spread. For the total, taking the two teams’ scoring potentials and momentum, the alternative for over could be smart. Watch for an opportunity with prop bets or over/under markets in case you notice a good deal in line movements.
Free Pick and Prediction: Oklahoma City Thunder 115, Memphis Grizzlies 101.