Houston Rockets vs Memphis Grizzlies Picks and Predictions October 25th 2024

Rockets vs Grizzlies October 25th 2024

At 8:00 ET, the Memphis Grizzlies (1-0) will travel to take on the Houston Rockets (0-1) in a Western Southwest Division matchup. The Rockets (-143) are currently favored by 2.5 points over the Grizzlies (+121) and the over/under line is set at 221.5.

This game will be played at the Toyota Center in Houston and can be seen on SCHN.

Grizzlies vs. Rockets Key Information

The Grizzlies opened their season with a 126-124 win over the Jazz on Wednesday, bringing their record to 1-0. Memphis, who were -2.5 point favorites, didn’t cover the spread, winning by just two points. The game’s total points of 250 exceeded the over/under line of 229.5 by 20.5 points.

A key moment for Memphis was a 13-0 run that turned a 43-37 deficit into a 50-43 lead. They led 93-86 going into the 4th quarter, but the Jazz outscored them 38-33 in the final period, making it a close finish.

Santi Aldama led the Grizzlies with 27 points and 5 threes in their win over the Jazz, shooting 62.5% from the field. Desmond Bane added 24 points, hitting 4 threes, while Ja Morant contributed 22 points and 10 assists, shooting 58.3%.

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Memphis connected on 17 threes at a 37.8% rate, finishing with a 47.3% overall shooting percentage. Bane scored 10 points in the 3rd quarter and added 9 more in the 4th, while Aldama had 9 points in the opening period.

Despite a strong start, the Grizzlies’ defense struggled in the 2nd half, giving up 36 points in the 3rd quarter and 38 in the 4th. Overall, they allowed the Jazz to shoot 47% from the field.

Memphis did well in limiting Utah’s three-point shooting, giving up just 10 made threes on 38% shooting. The Grizzlies also recorded 7 steals and 5 blocks in the game.

The Rockets dropped their season opener to the Hornets, losing 110-105 at home on Wednesday. Houston, now 0-1, entered the game as 8-point favorites but failed to cover the spread. The combined score of 215 points fell short of the 230.5-point O/U line.

Houston led 60-49 at halftime but struggled in the second half. Charlotte outscored them 30-23 in the 3rd quarter and went on a 10-0 run in the 4th, extending their lead from 83-76 to 93-76. The Rockets couldn’t recover, scoring only 22 points in the final period.

Santi Aldama’s 27 points and 5 threes at 50% shooting led the Grizzlies to a win over the Jazz, with Desmond Bane adding 24 points and 4 threes. Ja Morant contributed 22 points and 10 assists, shooting 58.3% from the field.

Memphis hit 17 threes at a 37.8% rate, shooting 47.3% overall. Bane scored 10 points in the 3rd quarter and 9 in the 4th, while Jay Huff added 8 of his 13 points in the 2nd quarter and 5 more in the 4th.

Defensively, the Rockets started strong, giving up just 21 points in the 1st quarter, but they struggled in the 3rd and 4th, allowing 30 and 31 points, respectively, in their 110-105 loss to the Hornets. Overall, Houston allowed Charlotte to shoot 44% from the field.

The Rockets had trouble defending the three, as the Hornets hit 15 threes at a 38% clip. Houston also sent Charlotte to the line 24 times, where they made 19 free throws. On the boards, the Rockets gave up 15 offensive rebounds while recording 8 steals and 4 blocks.

We’re calling a win for the Rockets, with a final score of 149-121, and we’re taking them to cover the spread. Our recommendation is to bet on the Rockets at -2.5.

As for the over/under, the the line is currently at 221.5, and our model projects the Grizzlies and Rockets to reach a combined total of 270 points. Our bet is on taking the over.

Ja Morant’s Return Energizes Grizzlies as They Head to Houston

The Memphis Grizzlies are looking to build on their season-opening win as they travel to Houston to face the Rockets on Friday. Star guard Ja Morant made an immediate impact in his return, showing little rust despite missing 73 games last season. Meanwhile, forward Santi Aldama stepped up impressively in Jaren Jackson Jr.’s absence, showcasing the depth and versatility that could make the Grizzlies a formidable team this season.

Ja Morant’s Stellar Comeback Ignites Memphis

In his first game back, Morant’s 22-point, 10-assist performance was a strong indicator of what he can bring to the Grizzlies this season. Morant’s ability to create plays and attack the rim makes him a pivotal force, and he wasted no time proving that his absence hasn’t diminished his impact.

“It felt great to be back on the floor with my guys,” Morant said postgame. “We’ve got a lot of potential, and we’re only scratching the surface.”

Morant’s return also sets up Aldama, whose impressive performance in the opener suggests he’s ready to take on a bigger role. In Jackson Jr.’s absence, Aldama racked up 27 points and five rebounds, nearly matching his career-high scoring. His shooting from beyond the arc (five 3-pointers) complements Morant’s slashing style, and the duo could form a dynamic inside-out threat for Memphis.

Santi Aldama: Rising Star with Versatility

Last season, Aldama showed his potential as a reliable starter, averaging 10.7 points and 5.8 rebounds. His versatility allows him to step in at multiple positions and make a significant impact, whether off the bench or in a starting role. Memphis coach Taylor Jenkins praised Aldama’s growth, noting his adaptability across various lineups.

“He’s got a lot of potential,” Jenkins said. “Going into his fourth year, he’s learned a lot and understands the impact he can have.”

Aldama’s perimeter shooting is invaluable, particularly alongside Morant, who thrives on driving to the basket. His ability to stretch the floor could be crucial for Memphis, especially as they look to ease Jackson back into the rotation.

Depth and Rotation: A New Strength for Memphis

Jenkins deployed an 11-man rotation in the opener, with all players recording double-digit minutes. This depth is an exciting development for the Grizzlies, giving them flexibility and a stronger support network around Morant. Memphis’s bench set a positive tone, providing critical support at various stages of the game.

“I haven’t played 11 guys probably in my time in Memphis,” Jenkins noted. “All 11 guys contributed in different forms or fashions. Moving forward, depth has got to be a strength for us.”

This depth not only lightens the load on Morant but also provides Memphis with resilience against injuries and tactical versatility for different matchups throughout the season.

Houston Rockets: Early Struggles and Depth Dilemmas

On the other side, the Houston Rockets are dealing with their own depth challenges after a tough 110-105 loss to the Charlotte Hornets. Houston jumped out to an 18-point lead in the first half but ultimately failed to maintain momentum. Only one bench player, Amen Thompson, managed to score in double figures, finishing with 13 points and four rebounds.

Despite the lackluster bench performance, Rockets coach Ime Udoka remains optimistic, emphasizing that depth remains a priority for Houston this season.

“We have a rotation that we look at and like, and it’s going to be a good problem to have all year,” Udoka said.

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The Rockets’ bench issues are something to watch, especially given that Memphis’s bench has already proven it can contribute significantly. Houston needs more consistent production from its reserves to support their young core, including Thompson and forward Cam Whitmore.

Key Matchups to Watch

1. Ja Morant vs. Houston’s Backcourt Defense: Morant’s aggressive style will challenge Houston’s guards, who need to contain his drives and limit his passing opportunities. Look for Thompson to play an important role in trying to disrupt Morant’s rhythm.
2. Santi Aldama’s Outside Shooting vs. Houston’s Defense: Aldama’s hot hand from beyond the arc can help stretch Houston’s defense, creating more space for Memphis’s offense. His matchup against Houston’s forwards could be pivotal in determining the Grizzlies’ scoring flow.
3. Memphis Bench vs. Houston Depth: Memphis’s depth advantage could be the deciding factor if the Grizzlies can replicate their balanced attack from the opener. Meanwhile, Houston’s bench will need to step up and offer more consistent scoring to keep pace.

Game Outlook

The Grizzlies, riding high off their opener, have the depth and talent to be a serious threat in the Western Conference, and Friday’s game in Houston could further prove their ability to go deep in the rotation. With Morant back in full force and Aldama stepping up, Memphis is well-positioned to challenge Houston’s defense and extend their winning start to the season.

Houston, on the other hand, faces an early test of their depth and defensive endurance. The Rockets will need contributions across the board if they hope to contain Memphis’s balanced attack.