Game Preview
The Memphis Grizzlies (9-7) roll into Chicago riding a one-game winning streak and looking to extend their strong start to the season against the struggling Bulls (6-10). While both teams have scuffled over their last five games, the Grizzlies' 60-percent mark over their previous 10 contests stands in stark contrast to the Bulls' underwhelming 30-percent clip during that same stretch.
Offense has been a major issue for Chicago, as they've averaged just 116.7 points over their last 10 games while surrendering a whopping 126.5 points per contest. The Bulls' shooting numbers paint an even bleaker picture - they're hovering around 48 percent from the field and a shade below 38 percent from three during that span. On the positive side, they've been solid at the charity stripe, converting nearly 82 percent of their free throws.
Memphis, on the other hand, has shown more balance on both ends. Over their last 10 games, the Grizzlies are scoring 119.4 points per game while allowing just 109.4 - a stark reversal from the Bulls' struggles. Their shooting percentages have been solid, sitting just under 48 percent overall and hovering around 35 percent from deep. They've also taken care of the ball better, averaging 16.6 turnovers compared to Chicago's 15.3 giveaways.
The biggest difference has been on the glass and protecting the rim. The Grizzlies are grabbing nearly 50 rebounds per game over their last 10 while swatting away 8.6 shots. Meanwhile, the Bulls are pulling down just 42 boards and blocking only 4.8 shots during that same stretch. If Chicago can't improve its interior presence, Memphis could have a decided advantage down low.