Game Preview: Spurs vs. Grizzlies
Tonight, at 8 PM ET, the San Antonio Spurs (9-4) will face off against the Memphis Grizzlies (4-10) in a highly anticipated matchup broadcasted on NBC and streamed on Peacock. As the Spurs look to extend their winning streak, they will have to do so without their star player, Victor Wembanyama. Meanwhile, the Grizzlies hope to break a dismal four-game losing streak, compounded by the absence of Ja Morant.
Team Insights
For San Antonio, De’Aaron Fox is stepping up in Wembanyama’s absence, supported by promising young guards Dylan Harper and Stephon Castle. The Spurs are coming off a solid victory over the Sacramento Kings, where they triumphed 123-110 despite Wembanyama’s sidelined status, following a two-game losing streak against the Warriors. San Antonio has shown inconsistency this season, alternating between winning streaks of five and three games, alongside two losing streaks of two games each. They will aim to capitalize on their status as home favorites in this prime-time clash.
Conversely, Memphis is struggling, having won only one of their last nine games, with their recent streak pushing their record sharply downward. With Morant out due to injury, the Grizzlies will depend heavily on Jaren Jackson Jr. and other key role players. So far this season, Memphis has managed just one win against a team with a winning record, while six of the Spurs’ nine victories have come against teams with losing records. As both teams gear up for the contest, the stakes are high, particularly for the Grizzlies, who seek redemption on a national stage.
Game Details
Heading into the battle, here’s what you need to know about the game’s details and how to catch the action:
- Game Time: 8 PM EST
- Event Location: Frost Bank Center, San Antonio, TX
- Viewing Options: NBC/Peacock
Current Odds
Current Odds from DraftKings:
- Moneyline: Spurs (-230), Grizzlies (+190)
- Spread: Spurs -5.5
- Total Points: 233.5
This gives an implied team total of approximately 119.5 for the Spurs and 113.5 for the Grizzlies.
Projected Lineups
The projected starting lineups include:
- Memphis Grizzlies: PG Cam Spencer, SG Jaylen Wells, SF Cedric Coward, PF Jaren Jackson, C Zach Edey
- San Antonio Spurs: PG De’Aaron Fox, SG Devin Vassell, SF Julian Champagnie, PF Harrison Barnes, C Luke Kornet
Injury Report
As for injuries, the Grizzlies will miss Ja Morant (calf strain), Ty Jerome (calf), and Brandon Clarke (knee). The Spurs will not have Victor Wembanyama, Stephon Castle, Dylan Harper (all hip), and Jordan McLaughlin (hamstring) in their lineup tonight.
Trends and Insights
When examining trends, Memphis’ record against the spread is alarming, noted at 4-10, placing them amongst the league’s bottom tier. They’ve struggled as road underdogs, with just one win in that role. In contrast, San Antonio holds a marginally better 5-6-2 against the spread but has underperformed as favorites.
Among betting insights, Vaughn Dalzell highlights a potential positive trend for the Grizzlies, suggesting they may fare better in the first half despite their overall poor performance.
This game promises to be compelling, as both teams confront their challenges head-on. For those interested in further insights, be sure to visit NBC Sports for the latest breaking news, live coverage, and expert analysis as this exciting matchup unfolds!