Orlando Magic vs Memphis Grizzlies Prediction & Betting Tips - NBA

Prediction published on 30/03/2024, 06:00  by Devesh Jaganath | Modified on 30/03/2024 at 06:05 in NBA Predictions

The Orlando Magic will play host to the Memphis Grizzlies at the Amway Center in the NBA on Saturday night. The hosts are 42-31 and fifth in the Eastern Conference, while the visitors are 24-49 and 13th in the Western Conference standings. 

The Memphis Grizzlies are going through a tough stretch, losing six of their last seven games overall. With their playoff hopes dashed, they suffered another heavy defeat against the Lakers, losing 136-124 on Wednesday. Desmond Bane led the team with 26 points and 16 assists, while Jake LaRavia contributed 25 points, six rebounds, and four assists coming off the bench. Memphis currently has the lowest-scoring offense in the NBA, averaging 106.1 points per game, while Orlando boasts the third-ranked defense, allowing only 108.5 points per game. The Grizzlies struggle with field goal shooting, ranking 30th, and 3-point shooting, ranking 29th. Although their offense is struggling, their defense has been decent, ranking 13th and giving up 113.1 points per game. With their playoff hopes gone, the Grizzlies now play the role of spoilers for the rest of the season. Unfortunately, they face another setback with Desmond Bane and Luke Kennard ruled out for the upcoming match, adding to their injury woes.

The Magic have nine games remaining in the season, including tonight's matchup against the Grizzlies, and they still have a chance to improve their position in the Eastern Conference standings. They've had a mixed record in their last 10 games, but they'll be looking to avoid a fourth consecutive loss after falling to the Clippers in a close 100-97 defeat last night. Paolo Banchero led the team with 23 points, supported by Jalen Suggs with 15 points and five assists. Despite averaging 110.4 points per game this season, ranking 26th in the league, the Magic are only 2.7 points shy of the 113.1 points the Grizzlies allow on average. However, they compensate for this deficit with their strong defense, which ranks third in the NBA, conceding an average of 108.5 points per game. The Magic are entering the game in good health and are determined to challenge the Cavs for the fourth spot in the Eastern Conference standings. The only slight uncertainty is around Markelle Fultz's availability for the game.