The Memphis Grizzlies take on the Indiana Pacers on February 20 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. This will be the first game for both teams following the All-Star break. Memphis is 36-18, sitting second in the Western Conference, while Indiana holds a 30-23 record, placing fourth in the East. Both teams will look to start the second half of the season strong.
These teams have already met twice this season, each winning one game. Memphis won 136-121 on December 1, covering the spread as a six-point favorite. Indiana got revenge on January 28, winning 116-110 as a seven-point underdog. Memphis has been strong against the spread in this series, covering in seven of the last ten matchups. Indiana will need to rely on its home-court advantage, where they are 14-8 this season.
Grizzlies Preview – Can They Keep Rolling?
Memphis enters the game as one of the most efficient offensive teams in the league. They average 123.3 points per game, ranking first in the NBA. The team also leads in field goal attempts per game (93.3) and free throws made per game (18.6). Jaren Jackson Jr. is having a career year, averaging 23 points per game, while Desmond Bane contributes as both a scorer and playmaker. The Grizzlies’ fast-paced offense puts pressure on opposing defenses.
Defensively, Memphis gives up 115.6 points per game, ranking 21st in the league. They struggle in defensive rebounding, ranking 22nd with 44.8 per game. Their shot-blocking has also been below average, ranking 24th with 6.0 blocks per game. However, they have covered the spread in 34 of their last 49 games, showing their ability to perform well in betting markets.
Memphis has been solid on the road, posting a 15-12 record away from home. They have also performed well in high-scoring games, hitting the team total over in 46 of their last 69 matchups. The Grizzlies will look to push the tempo and take advantage of Indiana’s weak defense.
Pacers Preview – Can the Offense Keep Up?
The Pacers also rely on a fast-paced offense, averaging 123.3 points per game, which ties Memphis for first in the league. Tyrese Haliburton leads the team with 20 points and seven assists per game, while Pascal Siakam provides scoring and rebounding. Indiana shoots 48.6% from the field, ranking fifth in the NBA. Their ability to move the ball is also a strength, as they rank third in assists per game (29.1).
On defense, Indiana struggles to contain opponents, allowing 115.6 points per game, which ranks 25th in the league. They have trouble defending the three-point line, allowing opponents to shoot 36.1% from deep. They also rank 25th in first, second, and third quarter points allowed. With Myles Turner still out due to a neck injury, their interior defense could be even weaker.
Indiana is 14-8 at home this season and has hit the moneyline in 20 of their last 28 games. They have also been a strong bet for the over, hitting it in 45 of their last 75 games. The Pacers will need to tighten up defensively if they want to slow down Memphis’ high-scoring attack.
Betting Prediction
Memphis is favored by 2.5 points, with the total set at 250.0. The Grizzlies have been strong against the spread, covering in 34 of their last 49 games. Indiana has been solid at home but struggles to slow down elite offenses. With both teams ranking first in scoring, this game has the potential for another high total.
Memphis has been more consistent against top teams and should have the advantage. If Ja Morant plays, their offense should be too much for Indiana’s defense to handle. Expect Memphis to cover the spread and the game to be high-scoring.
Pick: Memphis Grizzlies -2.5 over Indiana Pacers
