New York (38-20) at Memphis (38-20)
- When: Feb 28 2025, 8:00 PM
- Where: FedExForum, Memphis, TN, USA
- TV: MSG
Game Preview
Line: Memphis -4.5
Total: 243.5
The New York Knicks look to keep their momentum rolling as they head to Memphis on Friday to face the Grizzlies, who are coming off a high-scoring thriller. With both teams missing key pieces, the matchup sets up as an intriguing Eastern vs. Western Conference showdown that could have playoff implications.
New York Knicks: Adjusting Without Towns
The Knicks picked up a key win over Philadelphia on Wednesday, despite being without Karl-Anthony Towns (knee). His status remains questionable for this game, leaving New York needing another big performance from Mikal Bridges.
Key Factors for New York
Bridges Steps Up: Dropped 28 points against the Sixers, including 19 in the first quarter, showcasing his offensive firepower.
Brunson Continues to Lead: Coming off a 34-point performance, he remains the focal point of the offense.
Injury Concerns: With Towns sidelined, the Knicks also lost Ariel Hukporti (meniscus), leaving depth concerns at center.
Without Towns, the Knicks lack a strong interior presence, which could be an issue against Memphis’ physical play. If Brunson and Bridges can stay hot, the Knicks have a chance to cover, but they’ll need support from their role players to keep up offensively.
Memphis Grizzlies: Riding the Momentum
The Grizzlies are fresh off an insane 151-148 overtime victory over the Phoenix Suns, the highest-scoring NBA game of the season. Ja Morant struggled for most of the game, but when it mattered most, he delivered in the clutch.
Key Factors for Memphis
Morant’s Late-Game Heroics: Despite shooting just 7-for-25, he scored 17 points in the fourth quarter and overtime, proving once again that he is built for big moments.
Jaren Jackson Jr. is Locked In: 28 points on 11-of-13 shooting shows his efficiency and importance to the Grizzlies’ offense.
Home Dominance: Memphis is 22-6 at home, giving them a clear edge in this one.
The Grizzlies are battling for the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference, and after showing their resilience against Phoenix, they should be fired up to continue their push.
Final Betting Predictions
Spread Pick: Memphis -4.5 – The Grizzlies are too strong at home, and without Towns, the Knicks may struggle to match their intensity.
Total Pick: OVER 243.5 – Memphis just played a 299-point game, and New York has firepower despite their injuries. Expect another shootout.
Final Verdict: The Grizzlies should pull away late, with Morant leading the charge once again. If Bridges and Brunson can keep New York close, there could be value on the spread, but expect Memphis to protect their home court.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
