Golden State Warriors vs Memphies Grizzlies Betting Preview
January 6, 2017
Date & time: Friday, January 6, 10:30 PM
Venue: Oracle Arena (Oakland)
Head to head record
Memphis Grizzlies vs Golden State Warriors 110-89 (2016/2017 NBA)
Golden State Warriors vs Memphis Grizzlies 125-104 (2015/2016 NBA)
Memphis Grizzlies vs Golden State Warriors 99-100 (2015/2016 NBA)
Memphis Grizzlies vs Golden State Warriors 84-100 (2015/2016 NBA)
Golden State Warriors vs Memphis Grizzlies 119-69 (2015/2016 NBA)
Golden State Warriors vs Memphis Grizzlies prediction
Golden State Warriors have rediscovered their form of late, winning four straight matches and they have been made strong favourites to make it five on the bounce. Grizzlies, on the other hand, were beaten by the Lakers and Clippers at the start of the new year and they face another uphill task.
Warriors hungry for revenge!
Golden State Warriors failed to defend their NBA title last season, with the team losing lo Cleveland Cavaliers in the finals. The club chiefs decided to reinforce the roster in the summer and former Oklahoma City Thunder ace Kevin Durant is expected to help Warriors regain the trophy. Steve Kerr’s men occupy top position in the Western Conference and they have been impressive in the league ever since they suffered a 109-108 loss to Cleveland Cavaliers. Warriors are on a four-game winning run ahead of Friday’s game against Memphis and I am positive that they will give 100% in order to get their revenge on Grizzlies for the defeat at FedExForum (89-110). Steve Kerr’s troops did not take the game seriously as Memphis were playing without several first-team regulars, but, no doubt, the hosts will fight tooth and nail in Friday’s clash. Stephen Curry led Warriors to a 125-117 win against Portland Trail Blazers, with “the Golden Boy” scoring 35 points for the last season’s runners-up. Golden State are after their tenth consecutive win at home, but Grizzlies should not be underestimated.
Steve Kerr has no injury concerns ahead of the game and he is unlikely to rest his key players against Memphis Grizzlies. Damian Jones did not enter the court in the 125-117 win over Portland (coach decision), but he could play some part against Grizzlies.
Difficulties on the road
Los Angeles teams do not suit Memphis Grizzlies. Following a 116-102 defeat to Lakers, David Fizdale’s team suffered a 115-106 loss to Clippers at Staples Center. It is more than obvious that Grizzlies struggle on the travels and it has to be noted that the team recorded only one win in previous five away games. Memphis did remarkably well to beat Golden State Warriors at their FedExForum in December, but beating the star-studded team on the road is easier said than done. Grizzlies face an uphill task in Friday’s match against Warriors and I am not sure whether they are capable of claiming yet another major scalp. Spanish center Marc Gasol is enjoying yet another successful season. The former Barcelona star has been averaging 19.7 points and six rebounds this season and he will be the man to watch in the away team. You should know that Memphis are after their only tenth away win of the season.
Chandler Parsons is likely to return to contention after he was rested against Clippers, while JaMychal Green is rated doubtful. Brandan Wright (ankle) and Deyonta Davis are both sidelined with injury.
Interesting facts
- Warriors won six of last seven encounters against Grizzlies
- Golden State are eyeing their tenth straight win at home
- Memphis suffered four defeats in last five matches on the road
- Kevin Durant has been averaging 25.8 points this season
- Grizzlies scored 102+ points in each of their previous five away games
Golden State Warriors vs Memphis Grizzlies betting pick
As I have already mentioned, Golden State Warriors are hungry for revenge. Steve Kerr’s team aim to make amends for the shocking loss at FedExForum and considering that Warriors have been impressive at home so far this season, I am tempted to put my money on the favourites in this one. Memphis’ away performances leave a lot to be desired and the visitors are likely to return home empty-handed.
Pick: Golden State -14.5
Odds: -110
