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The Memphis Grizzlies (19-9) roll into Atlanta riding a wave of recent success, winning 8 of their last 10 games and 15 of their last 20. Over that scorching stretch, they've been nearly unstoppable offensively, averaging a blistering 127.4 points while shooting just under 50% from the field and nearly 39% from three-point range. Their prolific scoring has been fueled by an unselfish, pass-happy attack that's generated over 31 assists per game.
Defensively, the Grizzlies have been equally impressive, holding opponents to just 113.3 points per contest during this 10-game run. They've been particularly stingy on the glass, limiting opponents to under 48 rebounds per game while forcing 11 steals and swatting 5.3 shots. This balanced, two-way dominance has propelled Memphis to the fourth-best record in the league at 19-9.
Conversely, the Hawks (14-14) have been treading water, splitting their last 10 games while averaging 120 points but surrendering 116.1. Their offense has remained potent thanks to 46.9% shooting, but defensive lapses have proven costly. Atlanta has particularly struggled on the glass, grabbing just 50.2 rebounds per game while allowing over 15 turnovers.
In their last five outings, the Hawks' struggles have intensified as they've dropped 3 of 5 games. Their scoring has dipped to 119.6 points, but more alarmingly, they've allowed 123.2 points per contest. Rebounding woes have persisted, grabbing just 51.8 boards while shooting a pedestrian 44.6% from the field. If Atlanta hopes to contain the surging Grizzlies, they'll need to tighten up defensively and crash the glass.