The Memphis Grizzlies (6-16) will battle the Houston Rockets (11-9) for the second time this season on Wednesday, December 13 at 8:00 PM ET. ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook shows that the Rockets are moderate favorites with a moneyline at -250.

When: December 13, 2023 at 8:00 PM ET

Where: Toyota Center in Houston, Texas

Watch: NBA League Pass

Memphis Grizzlies Preview

The Grizzlies have lost their last two consecutive games, both of which were at home, and now must figure out a way to break the skid on the road. Their most recent defeat was a 120-113 matchup against the Dallas Mavericks, marking their second consecutive game of allowing 120 points or more.

The Grizzlies could be a dominant scoring force once Ja Morant enters the lineup again on December 19. Desmond Bane has done everything he can to make them contenders each game with 24.8 points per contest. He will need another big performance against arguably one of the best defenses in the league.

The Grizzlies offense might not be this way much longer if Morant can add value in his return. Currently, they average 106.5 points per game and rank 29th in the league. Their efficiency on offense ranks 29th as well, with a rating of 107.1.

Their defense has been a strong suit, as they are allowing 112.5 points a game and rank 10th here. Their efficiency in getting stops actually ranks a bit higher at ninth with an offensive rating of 113.1. They just slow down the Rockets in order to keep this a close matchup.

Houston Rockets Preview

The Rockets have found success in their last three straight games. Their previous win was a 93-82 performance over the San Antonio Spurs. Prior to that was a 114-106 victory against the defending champion Denver Nuggets. 

Alperen Sengun leads the Rockets in points (20.5) and rebounds (9.1) per game. If he can make an impact early in the game, they have a great shot of winning down the stretch.

The Rockets are not doing so hot offensively with 109.4 points per game and ranking 26th in the league. Their efficiency with the basketball ranks 23rd with a rating of 112.2. The only positive they could look at here is the Grizzlies do worse in that regard.

Their defense, however, is surprisingly the best in the league at allowing 105.6 points per game. Their effectiveness on the defensive end and ranks second with a rating of 108.2. If they can slow the Grizzlies down on offense, they have a shot at winning this game.

Betting Odds

ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook offers odds for this compelling NBA betting opportunity. The Houston Rockets are favored to find success at home. According to market insights, the Rockets have a 67.7 percent chance to find the win.

Memphis Grizzlies: +200

Spread: +6.0 (-110)

Houston Rockets: -250

Spread: -6.0 (-110)

Totals: Over 213.5 (-110), Under 213.5 (-110)

Photo Credit: © Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports