Memphis Grizzlies vs
Oklahoma City ThunderPredictions & Preview

Oklahoma City Thunder Dominates Memphis Grizzlies in Game 1, Looks to Continue Streak in Game 2

In Game 1 of their first-round Western Conference playoff series, the Memphis Grizzlies suffered a humiliating 131-80 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Grizzlies (48-34) will now be looking to bounce back in Game 2 as they visit Paycom Center on Tuesday night. However, the Thunder (68-14) have been dominant in recent matchups, boasting a 10-0 record against Memphis. With Oklahoma City opening as the betting favorite at -14.5, it will be interesting to see if the line moves as game time approaches. Stay tuned to see which team comes out on top in this Grizzlies vs. Thunder showdown.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Grizzlies +700 | Thunder -1100
• Spread: Grizzlies +14.5 (-110) | Thunder -14.5 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 229 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Oklahoma City will win straight-up is 92%.

Memphis vs Oklahoma City Stats

Memphis Grizzlies

The Memphis Grizzlies earned the eighth seed in the Western Conference but suffered a significant loss to the top-seeded Thunder in the first game of the series, losing by 51 points. Despite their strong offensive performance during the regular season, scoring an average of 121.7 points per game, they struggled in Game 1, making only 34.4 percent of their field goals and 17.6 percent of their three-pointers.

Marvin Bagley III led Oklahoma City with 17 points, while Ja Morant and Desmond Bane contributed 17 and nine points respectively for Memphis. Defensively, the Grizzlies allowed an average of 116.9 points per game during the season, ranking 10th in defensive efficiency. They will need to improve their defensive performance in order to even up the series on Tuesday.

In terms of power ranking, Memphis is ranked 13th overall, with a strong offense that ranks second in the league, but a defense that ranks 24th. They have a record of 49-36 this season and excel in rebounding and assists. However, they struggle with allowing opponents to make high percentages of field goals and free throws. The Grizzlies will need to focus on improving their defense and capitalizing on their offensive strengths in order to be successful in the remainder of the series.

Oklahoma City Thunder Analysis

The Oklahoma City Thunder are off to a strong start in the playoffs, following up their impressive regular season performance with a dominant win over the Memphis Grizzlies in Game 1. Led by standout performances from players like Aaron Wiggins, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren, the Thunder are looking to maintain their momentum and secure a 2-0 series lead in their upcoming game on Tuesday. Oklahoma City's high-scoring offense, which averaged 120.5 points per game during the season, was on full display in Game 1, where they scored 131 points while shooting efficiently from the field and beyond the arc. Defensively, the Thunder were equally impressive, leading the league in defensive efficiency with strong numbers in field goal and three-point percentage allowed, as well as blocks and steals. With a power ranking of 2 and top rankings in both offense and defense, the Thunder are poised for continued success in the playoffs.

Oklahoma City Thunder dominating as they face struggling Memphis Grizzlies

The Oklahoma City Thunder are currently on a five-game winning streak, contrasting with the Memphis Grizzlies who have lost four of their last six games. The Thunder's recent success can be attributed to their impressive shooting percentage of over 49% in their last three games, compared to the Grizzlies' 43%. Furthermore, Oklahoma City has excelled at free throw shooting, making over 82% of their attempts. Their dominance on the boards, averaging more than 11 offensive rebounds per game, provides them with additional scoring opportunities. Additionally, their ability to limit turnovers and generate steals gives them a significant advantage over the struggling Grizzlies. Memphis's defensive shortcomings, allowing over 119 points per game in their last three outings, indicate they will struggle to contain the Thunder once again. Therefore, it is recommended to select Oklahoma City to cover the spread.

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