The struggling Toronto Raptors (13-20) take on a revived Memphis Grizzlies (11-22) on Wednesday, January 3 at 8:00 PM ET for an excellent NBA betting opportunity. ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook currently has the Grizzlies as slight favorites to win with a moneyline at -116.
When: January 3, 2024 at 8:00 PM ET
Where: FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee
Watch: NBA League Pass
Toronto Raptors Preview
The Raptors have gone 2-3 over their last five games, but at least were able to break a two-game losing skid before arriving into this game. Their recent win was a 124-121 outing over the Cleveland Cavaliers, with Pascal Siakam adding 36 points to help them win.
Siakam is averaging 22.4 points per game and is shooting 51.8 percent from the field. Dennis Schroder is leading with 7.0 assists per contest, with only 1.7 turnovers in return.
The Raptors are averaging 114.0 points per game and rank 18th in the league for their scoring output. Their efficiency with the ball ranks 17th overall, with a 114.6 rating. Surprisingly, they also rank 18th in the league for their pace of play.
Their defense allows 115.2 points per game from opposing offenses, ranking 18th. Their efficiency on the defensive end ranks 16th with a rating of 115.9, so just about league average here.
Memphis Grizzlies Preview
The Grizzlies won four straight when Ja Morant returned to the lineup, but have cooled down to 5-3 overall in eight games. They recently snapped a three-game losing streak with a 106-98 win over the San Antonio Spurs, with Morant leading with 26 points.
Desmond Bane is still a dominating threat alongside Morant and leads the team with 24.6 points per game and 47.5 percent shooting from the field. Bane also leads with 5.1 assists, but turns the ball over 2.8 times a game. Nonetheless, the duo of Bane and Morant is a matchup nightmare if their supporting cast can find ways to fill in the gaps.
The Grizzlies currently average the worst amount of points per game in the league at 106.7, but this is likely changing as Morant provides a key weapon for them. Their efficiency on offense ranks last with a 106.6 rating. Their pace of play ranks 12th in the league, which bodes well if they can push the ball in transition and score easier buckets.
Defending against teams has been their strong suit so far, as they allow 113.4 points per game and rank 13th in the league. They also rank ninth overall for their efficiency on defense, with a 113.2 rating.
Betting Odds
ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook showcases appealing NBA betting odds. The Grizzlies currently have a slight edge to win, but market analysis indicates they only have a 36.1 chance at success.
Toronto Raptors: -101
Spread: +1.5 (-113)
Memphis Grizzlies: -116
Spread: -1.5 (-108)
Totals: Over 230.5 (-114), Under 230.5 (-107)
