Game Preview
The Memphis Grizzlies (20-10) enter Thursday's matchup riding a wave of momentum, having won seven of their last 10 games and 14 of their last 20. Their high-powered offense has been firing on all cylinders, averaging a blistering 126.1 points over the last 10 games while shooting a scorching 48.4 percent from the field and 40.4 percent from three-point range.
However, the Grizzlies' defensive intensity has slipped slightly, allowing 113.9 points per contest during that same stretch. They'll need to tighten up on that end against a Toronto Raptors team that has found its scoring touch, pouring in 127.2 points per game over their last five outings despite a dismal 0-5 record during that span.
The Raptors' struggles this season have been well-documented, sitting at a disappointing 7-23 with an eight-game losing streak. But their recent offensive surge, fueled by a 46.6 percent field goal percentage and a 35.6 percent mark from deep over the last 10 games, suggests they could give the Grizzlies' defense some trouble.
On the glass, Memphis has been dominant, grabbing nearly 50 rebounds per game this season. They'll look to control the boards against a Raptors team that has hauled in just under 50 boards themselves over their last 10 contests. Whichever team can impose its will on the glass could seize control of this matchup.
Ultimately, the Grizzlies' 70 percent win rate over their last 20 games, coupled with their home-court advantage, makes them the favorites here. But the Raptors' newfound scoring punch means Memphis can ill afford a defensive lapse if they want to extend their strong run of form and hand Toronto yet another disappointing loss.