Oklahoma City (2-0) at Memphis (0-2)
- When: Apr 24 2025, 9:30 PM
- Where: FedExForum, Memphis, TN, USA
- TV: TNT
Thunder vs. Grizzlies Game 3 Preview & Betting Prediction
Spread: Oklahoma City -9.5 | Total: 227.5
Thunder Look to Slam the Door Shut
The top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder roll into Thursday’s Game 3 in Memphis with full momentum, having dismantled the Grizzlies in back-to-back blowouts to open the series. With wins by 51 and 19 points, OKC has dominated both ends of the floor, despite All-NBA guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander struggling to find his usual rhythm.
In Game 1, the Thunder coasted behind their defense and depth as Gilgeous-Alexander managed just 15 points on 4-of-13 shooting. Game 2 was slightly better, with SGA dropping 27, but on an inefficient 10-of-29 from the field. Even with those shooting woes, OKC didn’t skip a beat thanks to big-time contributions from Jalen Williams (24 points) and Chet Holmgren (20 points, 11 rebounds, 5 blocks).
Oklahoma City’s defense has suffocated the Grizzlies, holding them to 34% shooting in the opener and forcing 24 turnovers. In Game 2, Memphis missed its first 10 shots and never led at any point. The Thunder also grabbed 16 offensive boards, showing hustle that turned into crucial second-chance points.
If Gilgeous-Alexander rediscovers his scoring touch, this one might not stay competitive for long.
Grizzlies Need Answers — Fast
The Grizzlies showed life in Game 2, thanks to stronger showings from Jaren Jackson Jr. and Ja Morant. Jackson bounced back from a dismal Game 1 with 26 points on 10-of-17 shooting, while Morant added 23 points and helped Memphis briefly cut into an 18-point halftime deficit.
Memphis managed to improve its ball movement in the third quarter, and for a moment, looked like they could make it a game. But poor rebounding, careless turnovers, and a lack of defensive stops left them once again on the wrong side of a double-digit loss.
Coach Tuomas Iisalo noted the team’s vulnerability to live-ball turnovers — the kind that OKC converts with ruthless efficiency. That’s not a formula for success, especially against a top-tier transition team.
Betting Prediction
Oklahoma City’s dominance hasn’t relied on an explosive game from its superstar. If SGA finds his rhythm, the Grizzlies could be facing a complete blowout. Memphis hasn’t shown the consistency to keep pace, especially on the defensive glass or protecting the ball.
Best Bet: Thunder -9.5
Expect OKC to stay locked in defensively and take advantage of Memphis’ miscues. With momentum on their side and depth delivering, the Thunder should cover comfortably.
Total: Lean on the Under (227.5) if Memphis continues to sputter early offensively.
Score Prediction: Thunder 118, Grizzlies 104
OKC stays perfect in the series, moving one step closer to the second round while Memphis continues to search for solutions.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
