The Minnesota Timberwolves (16-4) aim to win their second matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies (6-14) in Tennessee on Friday, December 8 at 8:00 PM ET. ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook is offering the Timberwolves as moderate favorites with a moneyline at -240.

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

Where: FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee

Watch: NBA League Pass

Minnesota Timberwolves Preview

The Timberwolves are currently on a five-game win streak, which started against the Grizzlies in a 119-97 blowout. Their most recent success was a 102-94 performance over the San Antonio Spurs, which gives them quality momentum heading into this one.

Anthony Edwards leads in scoring for them at 25.7 points a game. Rudy Gobert is averaging a double-double with 13.4 points and leading the team in rebounds at 12.1.

The Timberwolves might not be the most appealing team on offense at 112.3 points per game and ranking 20th in the league. Their efficiency with the ball ranks 18th with a rating of 113.2. Setting the tone offensively early will be key in staying one step ahead of the Grizzlies.

However, their defense makes up for it in allowing just 105.3 and ranking first. They also rank first in their efficiency on the defensive end with a rating of 106.2. So if their offense is lacking, they seem to have a good understanding on defense to stay within reach.

Memphis Grizzlies Preview

The Grizzlies are 3-2 in their last five games, which might be their best stretch of basketball this season. They are coming off a 116-102 victory over the Detroit Pistons, where Desmond Bane took over with 49 points.

Bane leads the team in scoring with 25.1 points per game on 46.6 percent shooting from the field. He also leads in assists with 5.4 a game to help drive their offense. Can he land another game near 40 points to help them succeed?

The Grizzlies might be lost without Bane flourishing in adversity, because they rank 29th in the league for averaging 106.4 points per game. Their efficiency rating is at 106.6, coming in at 29th as well in the rankings. A bad shooting day from them will put them in the hole deeper, as they have too many issues on offense.

Their defense has been a good quality and shows they are making an effort despite scoring troubles. They are allowing opponents to average 111.4 points a game, ranking 10th. Their efficiency on defense ranks eighth, with a rating of 111.6.

Betting Odds

ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook has compelling NBA betting opportunities. Looking at the odds, they favor the Memphis Grizzlies as market analysis also shows they have a 61.0 percent probability to win. With both teams ranking high on the list on defense, this should be a closer battle compared to last matchup.

Memphis Grizzlies: +200

Spread: +6.0 (-110)

Minnesota Timberwolves: -240

Spread: -6.0 (-110)

Totals: Over 214.0 (-110), Under 214.0 (-110)

Photo Credit: © Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports