The Cleveland Cavaliers will visit the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday, March 14 at the FedExForum. Cleveland leads the Eastern Conference with a 55-10 record, while Memphis sits second in the Western Conference at 42-24. The Cavaliers enter this game on a 15-game winning streak, matching their franchise record.
Memphis has also been playing well with four straight wins. The Grizzlies have struggled to hold big leads in recent games but found ways to close out victories. Cleveland won the last matchup between these teams 129-123 on February 23.
Cavaliers Preview – Defense Keeps Winning Streak Alive
The Cavaliers have relied on their strong defense to maintain their impressive winning streak. Cleveland allows just 108.8 points per game, ranking fourth in the NBA. Jarrett Allen has been a key defensive presence inside, averaging 1.3 blocks and anchoring the paint.
On offense, Darius Garland has been the primary scorer in recent games. Garland scored 30 points in Cleveland’s win over Brooklyn, including 18 points in the fourth quarter. Cleveland’s depth has been crucial as they’ve won without Donovan Mitchell, De’Andre Hunter, and Ty Jerome in the lineup.
Evan Mobley continues to provide a strong two-way presence. He scored 21 points with nine rebounds against the Nets while shooting 9-for-13. Cleveland’s ability to close games and maintain their defensive focus has been key throughout their win streak.
Grizzlies Preview – Holding Leads Remains a Challenge
Memphis has won four straight but continues to struggle with consistency. The Grizzlies led Utah by 19 points at halftime in their last game but had to rally in the final minutes to secure the win. Memphis also escaped with a narrow win over Phoenix after giving up a late turnover.
Ja Morant remains Memphis’ go-to option in tight games. Morant scored 28 points with seven assists in the win over Utah and delivered key baskets late in their victory over Phoenix. Desmond Bane is also a key contributor, scoring 17 points with nine assists in his last game.
Memphis’ defense has struggled to protect leads, allowing 115 or more points in three of their last four games. The Grizzlies have leaned on their backcourt to outscore opponents, but defensive lapses have created problems in closing games.
Key Stats and Matchup Trends
- Cleveland has won 15 straight games, tying their franchise record.
- Memphis has won four straight but has allowed 115+ points in three of those wins.
- Ja Morant has averaged 26.8 points over his last five games.
- The total has gone under in six of the last ten meetings between these teams.
- Cleveland is 25-6 on the road this season, while Memphis is 24-10 at home.
Betting Prediction
Both teams are playing well, but Cleveland’s defense has been the difference during their win streak. The Cavaliers’ ability to adjust without key players has kept them steady in close games. Cleveland’s strong inside defense, led by Allen and Mobley, should help limit Memphis’ scoring in the paint.
Memphis has struggled to maintain leads, and Cleveland’s late-game execution gives them the edge. Expect Cleveland to win a close battle and extend their winning streak to 16 games.
Pick: Cleveland Cavaliers -1.5 over the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday.
