Memphis Grizzlies vs. Minnesota Timberwolves 1/18/24 – The upcoming clash between the Memphis Grizzlies and the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday, January 18, 2024, is shaping up to be a riveting encounter in the NBA. The Grizzlies, holding a 15-25 record, face a challenging road game against the 28-11 Timberwolves at the Target Center. This match-up is a critical test for both teams and a focus for NBA betting picks today.
| When: | Thursday, January 18, 2024 at 10:00 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Target Center, Minneapolis |
| TV: | TNT |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
fly. @flymemphis pic.twitter.com/Cd6pizOK3z
— Memphis Grizzlies (@memgrizz) January 18, 2024
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grizzlies | +12.5 -110 | o216.5 -110 | +440 |  |
| Timberwolves | -12.5 -110 | u216.5 -110 | -588 | |
| ||||
Jaren Jackson Jr (PF) vs. Anthony Edwards (SG)
Jaren Jackson Jr has been an outstanding performer this season for the Grizzlies’ power forward position. Over 37 games he averages 21.3 points and 5.8 rebounds per game while also contributing on defense with an impressive 1.7 block average per game and turnover rate that requires greater consistency to ensure success.
Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves has been a scoring force. Playing as a shooting guard, his 26 points per game in 36 starts have been instrumental for Minnesota, while his balanced stats including 5.4 rebounds and 4.9 assists per game demonstrate his overall impact. Edwards also enjoys better ball control compared to Jackson due to a higher assist-to-turnover ratio.
When these two key players collide, their interactions will be both captivating and intriguing. Jackson will put his defensive skills against Edwards’ offensive onslaught in a test-of-wills on the court that could determine its flow and change its outcome drastically.
Grizzlies’ Statistical Insights: Defense and Rebounds – Memphis’s Dual Edge
The Grizzlies’ overall team statistics demonstrate a formidable defense unit. Averaging 6.2 blocks and 7.5 steals per game shows their ability to interrupt opponents’ offenses, and 42.6 rebounds per game led by Jackson is evidence of their dominance on the boards. Unfortunately, their field goal percentage of 44.4% and 33.9% leave room for improvement when it comes to shooting efficiency.
Timberwolves’ Statistical Analysis: Offensive Firepower of Minnesota
The Timberwolves excel offensively, scoring an average of 113.1 points per game and boasting an outstanding field goal percentage of 48.8% – significantly higher than that of their opponents Grizzlies – for more efficient scoring. Led by Edwards’ 38.3% three-point shooting and free-throw accuracy (78.7%), their balanced attack is further highlighted by strong rebounding numbers on defense with 34.9 defensive rebounds per game on average; making them formidable opponents.
NBA Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
Betting odds for this matchup have yet to be decided, though given the Timberwolves’ superior record and home court advantage they should likely be considered the favorites. Bettors should closely monitor the over/under line based on both teams’ scoring abilities and defensive stats.
Trends
Memphis Grizzlies Betting Trends
Grizzlies are 3-2 in their last 5 games.
Memphis Grizzlies are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Grizzlies are 12-9 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 3 of Grizzlies’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 5 of Grizzlies’ 18 last games at home.
Minnesota Timberwolves Betting Trends
Timberwolves are 3-2 in their last 5 games.
Minnesota Timberwolves are 4-1 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Timberwolves are 10-10 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 1 of Timberwolves’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 6 of Timberwolves’ 18 last games at home.
Injuries
Memphis Grizzlies
Derrick Rose PG Is out indefinitely, Hamstring
Steven Adams C Is out for season, Knee
Marcus Smart PG Is out indefinitely, Finger
Brandon Clarke PF Is out indefinitely, Achilles
Ja Morant PG Is out for season, Shoulder
Minnesota Timberwolves
Jaylen Clark SF Is “?” Thursday vs Memphis, Achilles
Memphis Grizzlies vs. Minnesota Timberwolves Betting Picks
Considering the statistics and recent trends, this game appears to be a clash of Memphis’s defense against Minnesota’s offense. The Timberwolves, with their efficient scoring and strong home record, seem to have the upper hand. However, the Grizzlies’ ability to outperform expectations on the road cannot be overlooked.
For bettors looking for value, considering the Grizzlies to cover the spread might be a wise choice, especially if they are significant underdogs. The over/under will largely depend on whether Memphis’s defense can slow down Minnesota’s high-powered offense. For those using a top-tier online sportsbook, exploring prop bets on key players like Jackson Jr. and Edwards could also offer value, given their crucial roles in their respective teams. Sign up today to make your NBA betting prediction!
Score Prediction: Timberwolves 110, Grizzlies 104.
