Memphis (45-32) at Detroit (43-34)
- When: Apr 5 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, MI, USA
- TV: FDSDET
NBA Betting Preview & Prediction: Grizzlies vs. Pistons
Line: Memphis -2 | Total: 240.0
With playoff seeding on the line, the Memphis Grizzlies head to Detroit on Saturday night looking to build momentum after a buzzer-beating win over the Heat. Memphis currently sits in sixth in the West and is doing everything possible to avoid falling into the play-in bracket.
Memphis Outlook
Ja Morant’s return to the lineup has added both firepower and controversy. Fresh off a $75K fine for an on-court finger gun gesture, Morant has embraced the role of the “villain,” and it’s clear he’s feeding off the energy. With a game-winner in Miami and a chip on his shoulder, expect another high-energy performance from the All-Star guard.
Memphis also notched its first win under interim coach Tuomas Iisalo, who took over after Taylor Jenkins was dismissed earlier this week. Despite facing a gauntlet of elite competition, Iisalo’s squad showed signs of defensive grit and toughness in their latest victory.
Detroit Outlook
Detroit, meanwhile, is riding high after officially locking in a playoff spot with a road win over Toronto. The Pistons, who won just 14 games last season, have flipped the script in 2024-25. Tim Hardaway Jr. dropped 23 points on Friday, and Jalen Duren dominated the boards once again, notching a 21-point, 18-rebound double-double — his 39th of the year.
Head coach J.B. Bickerstaff has transformed the Pistons into a top-three defense since the turn of the new year. However, Cade Cunningham’s lingering calf injury remains a concern. He’s missed six straight and remains questionable for this pivotal home matchup.
Betting Angle & Prediction:
Despite Detroit’s impressive turnaround, Memphis comes into this matchup with momentum and the best player on the floor in Ja Morant. Detroit is on a back-to-back, which adds to the challenge, especially if Cunningham remains sidelined.
Score Prediction: Memphis 121, Detroit 116
Best Bet: Grizzlies -2
Over/Under Lean: Slight lean to the under 240 — Detroit’s recent defensive efforts and potential fatigue from a back-to-back could suppress total scoring.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
