Memphis vs Utah: Grizzlies won’t give up the series for anything

After winning the first game of the series with Utah, Memphis lost the next two meetings. Now comes the moment of truth for Taylor Jenkins’ team. A loss in the upcoming game would make the score 1-3, which would effectively mean the Tennessee team’s elimination. Can the Grizzlies restore the balance?

With Jazz leader Donovan Mitchell recovering from injury, the Grizzlies can’t seem to get their defence up and running. Jenkins’s men allowed 141 points in the second game and 121 in the third. In both meetings, the Jazz’s work at the arc has been remarkable, with over 40% efficiency and 19 shots there and there. That’s key. Whether Memphis can neutralize their opponent’s main weapon will determine the outcome of the series. Utah have little else to offer.

Regardless of how this first-round showdown may go, Memphis’s Ja Morant should be a standout. The Grizzlies’ leader is making his playoff debut, averaging 33.7 points and 6.0 assists per game and shooting over 50% from the field.

If Ja Morant is just proving his worth in the playoffs, Utah leader Donovan Mitchell is once again proving his status. In two games in the series, Mitchell has been a key factor in turning the tide. His 27.0 points per game were just what the Jazz lacked in the first game of the contest.

Mike Conley should also be mentioned. The experienced point guard not only played one of the best regular-season seasons of his career, making his first trip to the All-Star Game but intends to be just as productive in the playoffs. Conley had 11.3 assists per game to start the series with Memphis. Needless to say, how important is the role of the point guard on a basketball court, especially for the playoffs?

Memphis made the playoffs for a reason, beating powerful and experienced opponents such as San Antonio and Golden State in the playoffs. Taylor Jenkins’ team also managed to prove themselves in the playoffs, beating Utah in the first game. It’s too early for the Jazz to relax. The Grizzlies could have another surprise in Game 4. We predict that Memphis will be close to winning a key game of the season.

• Memphis to win at odds of around 3.00;
• Memphis to win with a handicap (+6.0) at odds close to 1.86;
• Ja Morant’s Individual Total Over 25.5 with odds around 1.83.