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The Memphis Grizzlies will try to even up the best-of-seven series as they face off with the Golden State Warriors in Game 4 in California. It's time to continue our NBA odds series as we make a Grizzlies-Warriors prediction and pick.
The Warriors demolished the Grizzlies 142-112 in Game 3 of the Western Conference Semifinals. Steph Curry led the Warriors with 30 points, as he shot 7 for 14 from the field. Also, Klay Thompson generated 21 points on 8 of 13 shooting. Jordan Poole came off the bench to score 27 points.
Ja Morant led the Grizzlies with 34 points on 13 for 21 shooting. However, he also left the game after reinjuring his right knee in a collision with Poole while fighting over a loose ball. The Grizzlies listed him as doubtful to play in Game 4, which leaves an enormous hole. Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr. must contribute. Bane had 16 points on 5 of 10 shooting in Game 3. Meanwhile, Jackson scored 15 points. Both must do a little more, assuming Morant will not play.
Courtesy of FanDuel, here are the Grizzlies-Warriors odds:
NBA Odds: Grizzlies-Warriors Odds
Grizzlies: +10 (-106)
Warriors: -10 (-114)
Over: 223.5 (-110)
Under: 223.5 (-110)
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Why The Grizzlies Could Cover The Spread
Memphis did everything wrong in Game 3. The defense was the biggest culprit, as Golden State shot 63.1 percent. The Grizzlies could not stop the Warriors no matter what they did. Memphis must figure out a way to clamp down on the Golden State offense and limit their opportunities. Additionally, the Warriors shot 53.1 percent from beyond the arc. Golden State fired on all cylinders that seemed all-too-familiar.
Memphis likely will not have the services of Morant. However, it is a situation the Grizzlies got used to during the regular season, where they went 20-5 in games he missed. Bane and Jackson must fill the void left by Morant's injury. However, the bench must do more. Specifically, De'Anthony Melton needs to showcase his talent and help the second-stringers gain momentum when the Warriors rest Curry and Thompson. Melton shot terribly from the field as he produced a 5 for 14 stat line. Additionally, he went 1 for 8 from the 3-point line. Everything will come down to how well the bench can step up. The Grizzlies shot 37.2 percent from beyond the arc. Shooting from the 3-point line has been a weakness all year, and it is popping up again. The Grizzlies need to at least do better than the Warriors from the 3-point line.
The Grizzlies will cover the spread if they can stop the Warriors from killing them with shots from all over the court. In addition to that, Bane and Jackson must pace the starting five while Melton leads the bench. Memphis cannot let Curry, Thompson, and Poole push them all over the court. Memphis can do the unthinkable and tie this seven-game series if it limits the Golden State stars and jumps out to an early lead.
Why The Warriors Could Cover The Spread
Golden State got healthy at the right time and it is paying off. The Warriors have a rejuvenated Curry and a healthy Thompson. Draymond Green still exists, as he had five points and eight assists in Game 3. He has led the charge in the contributor department and showcased what he could still do on the floor.
The Warriors produced video-game numbers from the field as they did not miss often. Now, the goal is to replicate that effort and send the series back to Memphis with a chance to advance. Not having to face Morant will benefit the Warriors as they will get to hone in on other players. The Warriors won the battle of the boards 38-29 in Game 3. It allowed them the ability to achieve second-chance opportunities while limiting what Memphis could do on the opposite end. Golden State's ability to go on scoring bursts is magnificent, as it went on a 10-0 scoring run out of the half.
The Warriors will cover the spread if Curry, Thompson, and Poole can deliver fantastic stat lines and tear the Grizzlies' defense apart. Additionally, Golden State covers if they contain Bane and Jackson. Game 4 will come down to who can execute on their opportunities and who can defend better.
Final Grizzlies-Warriors Prediction & Pick
Morant's injury is a significant blow to the Grizzlies. He is one of the most talented players in the NBA and might not return this season if the Grizzlies cannot salvage at least one win over their next two games. Expect the Warriors to repeat the process that has propelled them to so many victories. Thus, the Warriors will win and cover the spread.
Final Grizzlies-Warriors Prediction & Pick: Warriors -10 (-114)
