The Memphis Grizzlies (6-18) take on the Oklahoma City Thunder (16-8) on Monday, December 18 at 8:00 PM ET at the Paycom Center for an appealing betting opportunity. ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook has the Thunder as heavy favorites with a moneyline at -550.

When: December 18, 2023 at 8:00 PM ET

Where: Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Watch: NBA League Pass

Memphis Grizzlies Preview

The Grizzlies have lost their last four games, with their most recent one being a 103-96 performance at home against the Houston Rockets. In all of these recent losses, the deficit was seven points or more at the end of the game.

This is expected to be the final game without Ja Morant, as it marks the 25th-game of his suspension. The Grizzlies will need to suffer at least one more game without his presence on both ends of the floor. Desmond Bane has been sensational with 24.9 points per game and shooting 46.8 percent from the field and has taken a huge step in leading this offense.

The Grizzlies rank last (30th) in the NBA for scoring, with 106.0 points per game. Their offensive efficiency also comes in at 30th in the league, with a rating of 106.5. A hot start to the game makes an incredible impact to their chances at winning.

They allow 112.3 points per game, which puts them at 11th in the league for their defense. Their efficiency in defending their basket per 100 possessions ranks ninth, with a rating of 112.8. As long as their defense stays storing, they have an opportunity to keep a handful of games close.

Oklahoma City Thunder Preview

The Thunder have gone 3-2 in their last five games, with a recent win over the Denver Nuggets. This was a 118-117 outing, where Shai Gilgeous-Alexander hit the game winner with just one second left to put the Thunder on top.

Gilgeous-Alexander has been a beast on offense this season for the Thunder. Currently, he averages 30.7 points a game, leads with 6.4 assists, shoots 54.2 percent from the field, and averages 91.3 percent of his makes at the charity stripe. 

The Thunder have the fifth-best offense in the league with 120.4 points per game. Their efficiency with the ball per 100 possessions ranks seventh, with a rating at 118.8. This bodes well for their chances over a tough defensive unit from the Grizzlies.

Defensively, they are slightly above average in allowing 113.6 points per game and ranking 13th. Their efficiency on the defensive end ranks eighth at 112.2. Against the Grizzlies struggling offense, this will make a difference in the game. 

Betting Odds

ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook showcases a great NBA betting prospect. The Oklahoma City Thunder are heavily favored to win. According to market analysis, they have an 82.5 percent chance of succeeding.

Memphis Grizzlies: +400

Spread: +10.5 (-110)

Oklahoma City Thunder: -550

Spread: -10.5 (-110)

Totals: Over 229.0 (-110), Under 229.0 (-110)

Photo Credit: © Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports