The Los Angeles Lakers (40-32) look to add onto their winning streak, as they face the Memphis Grizzlies (24-48) for the third time this season. ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook has this NBA showdown favoring the Lakers with a moneyline at -177.
When: March 27, 2024 at 8:00 PM ET
Where: FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee
Watch: NBA League Pass
Los Angeles Lakers Preview
The Lakers have won their last four games and have excellent momentum coming into this matchup. Their latest victory was a double overtime 128-124 outing over the Milwaukee Bucks. Impressively, they did this without LeBron James.
James (25.4 PPG, 8.1 AST) is expected to play in this matchup, but will be a game time decision. He had missed their previous game due to ankle discomfort.
The Lakers post 117.8 points per game, ranking them eighth in the league in scoring. Their efficiency in taking care of the basketball and finding those scoring opportunities ranks 16th, with a rating of 115.8. While they make the most of those opportunities, they are about average when it comes to taking care of the ball.
Their defense allows 117.7 points each game, ranking them 23rd. Their defensive efficiency ranks 14th with a rating of 115.7. At this rate, they are averaging the same amount of points on offense as they allow on defense, which gives them no room for error.
Memphis Grizzlies Preview
The Grizzlies have lost four out of their last five games and have played their last four consecutive on the road. Their most recent matchup was a 128-103 defeat to the Denver Nuggets, which started off rough when they allowed the Nuggets to earn 39 points in the first quarter.
While the Grizzlies had five players in double digits for scoring that game, Jaren Jackson Jr. will need to step up to his usual self. He currently leads them with 22.4 points per game and must bring that same energy after only having 11 points against the Nuggets.
The Grizzlies continue to show issues on the offensive end with just 105.9 points per game and rank last. Efficiency with the basketball on this end also ranks last with a rating of 107.2. This has been their biggest issue besides injuries.
Their defense stands strong, as they allow opponents to average 112.8 points each game and rank 11th in the league. Their ability to get defensive stops also ranks 11th, with a rating of 114.2. If they can slow down the Lakers’ offensive tempo, they have a shot at keeping this close.
Betting Odds
ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook provides you with the best NBA betting options. The Los Angeles Lakers are favored by 3.5 points, with market insights predicting they have a 64.5 percent chance at winning on the road.
Memphis Grizzlies: +137
Spread: +3.5 (-106)
Los Angeles Lakers: -177
Spread: -3.5 (-120)
Totals: Over 221.5 (-112), Under 221.5 (-113)
Photo Credit: © Kiyoshi Mio-USA TODAY Sports