Memphis Grizzlies vs Portland Trail Blazers Picks and Predictions November 25th 2024

Injuries Aren’t Slowing Grizzlies Ahead of Visit from Trail Blazers

The Memphis Grizzlies return to FedExForum on Monday night, hosting the Portland Trail Blazers while riding high on momentum fueled by exceptional teamwork.

Memphis, one of the league’s leaders in assists per game (29.8), showcased its unselfish play in Saturday’s 142-131 win over the Chicago Bulls. The Grizzlies recorded 38 assists, tying their season high, and trailed only Denver (30.3) and Golden State (30.2) in the category heading into Sunday’s games.

Pippen Jr. Shines in Chicago Homecoming

Starting in place of injured star Ja Morant, Scotty Pippen Jr. delivered a career night in Chicago, where his father, Scottie Pippen, achieved legendary status with the Michael Jordan-led Bulls. Pippen Jr. notched a double-double with 30 points and 10 assists, shooting an efficient 13-of-16 from the field.

“A dream come true,” Pippen Jr. said, reflecting on his performance in the United Center, where his father’s jersey hangs in the rafters.

Wells and Depth Step Up

Rookie forward Jaylen Wells added a career-high 26 points on 10-of-14 shooting, continuing his strong early-season play. The Grizzlies’ depth has proven vital as they navigate injuries to key players, including Morant (hip), Marcus Smart (illness), and rookie Zach Edey (ankle).

Despite the absences, Memphis has maintained its form, averaging 120.3 points per game—second in the NBA—and leading the league with 7.2 blocks per game. The Grizzlies surpassed the 140-point mark for only the sixth time in franchise history against the Bulls, shooting 57.3 percent from the field and making 19 three-pointers for the second consecutive game.

“We had a great run by scoring some 40-plus points (45) in the third (quarter),” Memphis coach Taylor Jenkins said. “Our game plan was pretty well executed.”

Trail Blazers Find Rhythm After Tough Loss

Portland also carries some momentum into Monday’s matchup. The Trail Blazers rebounded from a 28-point loss to the Houston Rockets on Friday with a 104-98 win over the same opponent on Saturday.

Your Free NBA Picks Await! See today’s NBA basketball picks against the spread and find your edge.

Anfernee Simons led Portland with 25 points, while Shaedon Sharpe added 24, and the Trail Blazers connected on 18 three-pointers. Deni Avdija anchored the defense with four blocks, frustrating Houston’s Alperen Sengun in the paint.

“It’s amazing to see Anfernee make some shots and carry us down the stretch,” Portland coach Chauncey Billups said. “And Deni was incredible. We depended on him a lot. He’s been begging for that opportunity for quite some time.”

Avdija praised Simons’ leadership in the win: “I’m proud of him. He showed what he’s made of and, hopefully, he’ll continue to be aggressive.”

Key Absences for Both Teams

Portland will be without rookie center Donovan Clingan, who sprained his left knee on Saturday. Clingan grabbed a career-high 19 rebounds in the win over Houston but went scoreless on 0-for-4 shooting.

Memphis remains hopeful for Morant’s return, as he was upgraded to questionable for Monday’s game. Smart (illness) and Edey (ankle) are expected to miss additional time.

The Matchup

With both teams showcasing depth and resilience in recent games, Monday’s clash promises a high-energy battle. The Grizzlies will look to maintain their strong offensive and defensive form, while the Trail Blazers aim to build on their recent victory with contributions from Simons, Sharpe, and Avdija.