The Memphis Grizzlies enter this road matchup with a clear desire to rebound from recent struggles and reassert their competitive identity in the Western Conference. At 18–26 overall with a 19–24–1 ATS record, Memphis has seen its season teeter between potential and inconsistency; though this roster has talent and historical success against New Orleans — including an 8–2 edge in recent head-to-head games — this campaign has included multiple setbacks and blown leads that have created frustration. Memphis’s offense has been capable of high output — scoring 127 points in their recent meeting with the Pelicans — and their balanced attack can stretch defenses with both perimeter shooting and inside scoring when players like Jaren Jackson Jr., Zach Edey, and others are in rhythm. Yet recent games have exposed vulnerabilities, especially on defense in crunch time, and the Grizzlies have been 2–5 ATS over their last 7 games, reflecting lapses where they’ve failed to cover as favorites or keep games within spread expectations. Going on the road adds another layer of difficulty; Memphis’s road record hasn’t been dominant, with 8–12 SU away, so establishing an early offensive rhythm and defensive focus will be essential.

The Grizzlies must control the boards and limit second-chance points for New Orleans, as the Pelicans have shown they can surge offensively when given extra possessions. Transition defense and perimeter coverage will be key areas Memphis needs to tighten up, especially if New Orleans spaces the floor and attacks early mismatches. Turnovers and pace control will also shape the flow — if Memphis can play within its sets, protect the ball, and generate open shots, it can keep this matchup close late into the fourth quarter. Coaching adjustments to manage rotations, particularly to exploit New Orleans’s matchups on the wing and in the paint, could pay dividends. Should Memphis hit its stride offensively while tightening defensive rotation and rebounding effectively on the road, the Grizzlies have the personnel and historic confidence against the Pelicans to leave Smoothie King Center with a crucial road win or at least cover the spread in a competitive Western Conference battle.