Atlanta Hawks vs Memphis Grizzlies Picks and Predictions December 21st 2024

Hawks’ Defense Faces Test Against Grizzlies’ High-Octane Offense

The Atlanta Hawks begin a four-game homestand on Saturday against the Memphis Grizzlies, a team riding the momentum of a historic offensive performance. The Grizzlies boast the league’s top-scoring offense, averaging 124.7 points per game, while the Hawks’ defense ranks among the NBA’s most porous, surrendering 119.3 points per contest.

Grizzlies’ Offensive Surge

Memphis (18-9) set a franchise record with 27 3-pointers in their dominant 144-93 win over the Golden State Warriors on Thursday. The Grizzlies’ offensive explosion was complemented by a suffocating defense that limited Stephen Curry to two points on 0-for-7 shooting and Draymond Green to zero points on 0-for-4 shooting.

“That’s our mentality,” Memphis coach Taylor Jenkins said. “It’s always about us. I could care less who’s on the schedule. We’re focused on playing to our standard every single night.”

Jaren Jackson Jr., the Grizzlies’ leading scorer at 21.8 points per game, continues to shine. Meanwhile, Ja Morant, who averages 21.2 points per game, remains doubtful for Saturday with back soreness after a hard fall against Indiana earlier this week. In Morant’s limited minutes against Golden State, Memphis still displayed remarkable depth and balance, with contributions from across the roster.

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Hawks’ Defensive Challenges

The Hawks (14-12) have won seven of their last 10 games but face glaring issues on defense, particularly against the 3-point shot. Atlanta ranks last in the league in opponent 3-point makes per game (15.9) and opponent 3-point percentage (38.2 percent). Those struggles will be under the microscope against Memphis, which has demonstrated elite shooting.

Atlanta is coming off a 133-126 overtime loss to the San Antonio Spurs, their third time in five games allowing more than 130 points. Despite the defensive lapses, the Hawks’ balanced offense remains a bright spot, with four players scoring 20-plus points in the loss to San Antonio.

“We had a lot of good possessions where we were spaced and able to get some good looks,” Hawks coach Quin Snyder said.

Lineup Adjustments and Key Injuries

Memphis recently moved rookie center Zach Edey into the starting lineup, with Brandon Clarke transitioning to the bench. Both players delivered solid performances against Golden State, combining for 16 points and 18 rebounds. Jenkins said the decision to adjust the lineup was meant to provide a spark and would be evaluated game by game.

For Atlanta, star guard Trae Young is listed as questionable with a right heel issue. Young’s absence would be a significant blow to a team already missing backups Kobe Bufkin (shoulder) and Onyeka Okongwu (knee). Memphis is dealing with injuries as well, as Marcus Smart (shoulder) is questionable, and Jay Huff (ankle) remains out.

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Recent History

Memphis and Atlanta split their two meetings last season, with each team winning on the road. The Grizzlies have won their past two games in Atlanta, giving them added confidence as they look to continue their offensive dominance.

Keys to the Game

• For Memphis: Continue exploiting their 3-point shooting against Atlanta’s weak perimeter defense. If Morant is sidelined, the Grizzlies must rely on Jackson and their depth to maintain offensive efficiency.
• For Atlanta: Tighten perimeter defense and limit second-chance opportunities for Memphis. Young’s status looms large; his availability could dictate Atlanta’s offensive flow.

The Hawks will aim to snap their losing streak and slow down the Grizzlies, who have proven they can dominate on both ends of the court. Whether Atlanta’s defense can rise to the occasion remains to be seen.