Connect with us

NBA

Ja Morant Returns, Grizzlies Rely on Depth for Houston Matchup

The Grizzlies and the Rockets will meet on the court at Toyota Center in a battle of division rivals.

(Photo by Getty Images) Ja Morant

Memphis (1-0) at Houston (0-1)

  • When: Oct 25 2024, 8:00 PM
  • Where: Toyota Center, Houston, TX, USA
  • TV: SCHN

Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total

Memphis Grizzlies @ Houston Rockets
Moneyline

Memphis Grizzlies   +125
Houston Rockets   -145

Memphis Grizzlies @ Houston Rockets
Point Spread

Memphis Grizzlies   2.5 (-110)
Houston Rockets   -2.5 (-110)

Memphis Grizzlies @ Houston Rockets
Total

Over   222.5 (-110)
Under   222.5 (-110)

Key Players:
Memphis: Ja Morant
Houston: Alperen Şengün

Team Stats

Grizzlies   Rockets
1-0 Record 0-1
1-0 Away & Home 0-1
1-0 ATS 0-1
W1 O/U L1

Last Matchup:
MEM 121-113, February 14th, 2024

Game Preview

Memphis guard Ja Morant made a strong return in the Grizzlies’ season opener, proving the hype around his comeback was well-founded. After missing 73 games last season due to suspension and injury, Morant showed no signs of rust, tallying 22 points, 10 assists, and five rebounds in a tight 126-124 win over the Utah Jazz. Bettors eyeing Morant’s props may find value, given his immediate impact on the court.

Forward Santi Aldama, filling in for injured Jaren Jackson Jr., was equally impressive, posting 27 points (one short of his career high) and adding five rebounds. Aldama’s perimeter shooting complements Morant’s drive-heavy game, making the Grizzlies’ offense versatile. His five 3-pointers against Utah suggest Aldama’s long-range game could be a valuable asset moving forward, and bettors might consider his three-point props in upcoming matchups.

Coach Taylor Jenkins praised Aldama’s versatility and growth, hinting that the fourth-year forward will play an integral role even when the roster is fully healthy. Jenkins also employed an 11-man rotation, giving Memphis a depth advantage, especially if Morant’s offensive load is shared by the bench. This depth could be crucial for bettors looking at Memphis to cover spreads, especially on the road.

Meanwhile, the Houston Rockets, who promoted their depth entering the season, struggled to capitalize in their 110-105 loss to the Charlotte Hornets. After losing an 18-point lead, only one reserve, Amen Thompson, reached double figures with 13 points. Coach Ime Udoka acknowledged the challenge, noting his rotation may shift depending on in-game performance. For bettors, Houston’s bench inconsistency could make them a risky pick to cover, particularly if they continue to rely heavily on their starters in close games.

With Memphis boasting strong depth and Houston yet to find its rhythm, Friday’s game offers opportunities for player props and spread bets, especially with Morant and Aldama set to make an impact against a struggling Rockets squad.

Handicappers Picks – Join for Free

NBA Parlay Picks & Predictions

Final Score: Memphis 115-112
The Pick: Memphis (+125) & Over 225½
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $430

Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Top Sportsbooks

bovada logo
75% Welcome Bonus up to $750
betonline
50% Welcome Bonus Up to $1000
mybookie
100% Welcome Bonus up to $1,000
365betting
Weekly Promotions & Much More

More in NBA