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Friday’s 12-game NBA lineup features a meeting between the LA Clippers and Memphis Grizzlies, two Western Conference teams trying to move past their early-season struggles.
Here’s a preview of this LA Clippers vs Memphis Grizzlies game, scheduled to tip off at 8 p.m. ET at FedExForum in Memphis.
LA Clippers vs Memphis Grizzlies Preview and Odds
Moneyline: Clippers (-130) vs Grizzlies (+110)
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Spread: Clippers -1.5 (-110) vs Grizzlies +1.5 (-110)
Total (O/U): Clippers o223.5 (-110) vs Grizzlies u223.5 (-110)
Editor's note: The odds could change close to the game. The odds listed were as per available information at the time of writing.
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LA Clippers vs Memphis Grizzlies preview
The first notable detail is that the LA Clippers -- a team that dropped five straight before finally picking up a win -- are slight favorites, which might surprise some, considering the Grizzlies have been the stronger group both in the standings and in recent form, winning three in a row before their latest defeat.
Here is a closer look at how the teams match up.
In their last 10 outings, the Clippers posted the league’s fourth worst defensive rating and finished 2-8. Their age showed as well, landing in the bottom 10 in pace and producing the fourth fewest possessions per game.
Even so, their top players have delivered during that span: James Harden has suited up for every game, averaging 28.9 points and 7.7 assists, while Kawhi Leonard has put up 27.5 ppg on 49.6% shooting across six games.
The Clippers still have a path to compete with their stars leading them, and with the Grizzlies potentially worn down after a four-game road trip (in which they went 3-1), LA could be in position to surprise them on their home floor.
Memphis’ recent surge includes a 5-2 run over its last seven outings, during which the team ranked top 10 in offensive, defensive and net rating.
Even without Ja Morant, the Grizzlies’ frontcourt has carried the load, with Jaren Jackson Jr. posting 17.4 ppg and Zach Edey adding 15.3 ppg and 12.3 rebounds. Jaylen Wells (16.7 ppg) and Cam Spencer (14.3 ppg) have also provided scoring for a group that has seven players averaging double figures in that stretch.
However, the roster remains hit hard by injuries, with Morant, Ty Jerome, GG Jackson, Brandon Clarke, Scotty Pippen Jr. and Javon Small sidelined. The Clippers, meanwhile, will be without Bradley Beal, Bogdan Bogdanovic, Derrick Jones Jr. and Chris Paul, whom the team has sent home.
LA Clippers vs Memphis Grizzlies betting tips
- James Harden O/U 26.5 points – Take the under.
- Kawhi Leonard O/U 25.5 points – Take the over.
- Jaren Jackson Jr. O/U 20.5 points – Take the under.
- Zach Edey O/U 13.5 points – Take the over.
LA Clippers vs Memphis Grizzlies prediction
This matchup sets up for the Grizzlies to come out on top, with their athletic edge likely to overwhelm the Clippers. While Memphis is not one of the league’s fastest teams, they should beat LA on the glass and win the effort plays on their way to the victory.
Our prediction: Grizzlies win by 12.
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