Memphis Grizzlies vs. Los Angeles Lakers – As the NBA season heats up, the upcoming clash between the Memphis Grizzlies and the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday, is drawing significant attention from fans and bettors alike. With both teams showcasing their unique strengths and weaknesses, this game is a key focus for NBA picks and predictions.
Memphis Grizzlies vs. Los Angeles Lakers
Date & Time: Friday, January 5, 2024, at 10:00 PM ET
Location: Crypto.com Arena
TV: ESPN
Memphis Grizzlies vs. Los Angeles Lakers Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Grizzlies | TBD | TBD | TBD |
| Lakers | TBD | TBD | TBD |
Memphis Grizzlies Analysis
Memphis Grizzlies currently hold a 10-22 record and face significant challenges as they approach this game. Their offense has shown some prowess but lack consistency, averaging 106.8 points per game on an average 38.8 three-point attempts with 12.9 makes on 38 attempts per game; their field goal percentage sits at 43.7% showing room for improvement when selecting and executing shots. Their offensive burden largely falls upon Ja Morant who boasts impressive playmaking and scoring ability – 25.2 points per game scored with 7.8 assists per game being their primary source. His scoring abilities need support so his 25.2 point per game is impressively supporting him.
Defensively, the Grizzlies present a challenging picture. While their turnover generation excels – with an average of 7.5 steals and 6.4 blocks per game – their high foul rate (20.6 fouls per game) often leaves them vulnerable against teams who excel from free throw range. Such weaknesses could become particularly evident against Lakers opponents adept at exploiting such vulnerabilities; therefore the Grizzlies must focus on playing disciplined defense with an aggressive edge to contain their potency offensive attack.
Los Angeles Lakers Analysis
Los Angeles Lakers boasting a 17-17 record have shown to possess a more potency and efficient offensive unit compared to Memphis Grizzlies, scoring 114.2 points per game on 48.5% field goal percentage averages and boasting LeBron James as their offensive star, averaging 25.4 points, 7.4 rebounds, 7.4 assists per game while creating opportunities for teammates as well as leading them during crucial situations. They can draw fouls effectively to make 18.6 free throws per game on average as another weapon in their arsenal compared to Memphis Grizzlies who only score 90.9 points per game on average per game due to Grizzlies deficiencies on offense.
Defensively, the Lakers display both strengths and vulnerabilities on defense. Their effectiveness at creating turnovers speaks for itself with 7.7 steals and 5.6 blocks per game demonstrating their ability to disrupt opponents’ plays, yet their perimeter defense sometimes struggles, leaving them susceptible to opponents with strong outside shooting capabilities. Furthermore, rebounding plays a key role in their defense; with an average of 35 defensive rebounds per game they limit second-chance opportunities of their opponents.
Memphis Grizzlies vs. Los Angeles Lakers Against the Spread
The Grizzlies have struggled against the spread this year, covering in just 9 of their 32 games. However, they’ve performed better on the road, covering in 9 of their 14 away matchups. The totals have also trended over recently, going over in 3 of their last 5 contests.
The Lakers have been strong against the number, covering the spread in 15 of their 34 games this season. At home, they are above .500 ATS as well, covering in 8 of their 16 Crypto.com Arena matchups. The totals have also gone over in 4 of their last 5 outings.
Memphis Grizzlies vs. Los Angeles Lakers Free Pick
Based on trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: Lakers. The Lakers’ overall performance and LeBron’s leadership give them an edge.
Spread: Lakers to cover. Given their slightly better performance against the spread and the Grizzlies’ inconsistency, the Lakers are the safer bet.
Total: Over. Both teams have trends indicating high-scoring games recently.
Predicted Score: Los Angeles Lakers 112, Memphis Grizzlies 105
Conclusion Despite their potential to surprise, the Lakers seem like the more reliable pick, especially for Canadian sportsbook bettors. LeBron James should help lead his squad to victory in this intriguing NBA battle.
