The Cleveland Cavaliers (28-17) take on the Memphis Grizzlies (30-13) in Wednesday night’s NBA games. Visit the NBA Odds Series for Cavaliers Grizzlies odds, tips and predictions.
The Cavaliers are trying to regain their composure as their last six games have resulted in three wins and three losses. The Cavaliers enter this game as the fifth seed of the hard-fought Eastern Conference behind the Boston Celtics, Milwaukee Bucks, Philadelphia 76ers and Brooklyn Nets. JB Bickerstaff’s side will try to get into the playoffs as last year’s results only got them into the play-in stage.
The Memphis Grizzlies have had a far superior record as of late, as they have racked up 10 straight wins, including victories over the Raptors, Pelicans, Kings, Pacers and Suns. As this game offers Memphis fans another opportunity to experience the young squad in their exciting gameplay, Taylor Jenkins’ young crew is likely to put on an exhilarating performance on the FedEx Forum.
Here are the Cavaliers grizzliesNBA Oddscourtesy of FanDuel
NBA Odds: Cavaliers Grizzlies Odds
Cleveland Cavaliers: +7.5 (-106)
Memphis Grizzlies: -7.5 (-114)
Over: 27 (-110)
Below: 227 (-110)
How to Watch Cavaliers vs. Grizzlies
TV: Bally Sports Southeast – Memphis, Bally Sports Ohio
Stream: NBA League Pass
Time: 8:00 p.m. ET / 5:00 p.m. PT
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Why the Cavaliers could cover the spread
The Cavaliers have had mixed results away from home, having recorded just four wins in their last 10 away games. In their previous matchup against the Grizzlies this season, the Cavs are looking to avenge their previous 110-106 loss.
Aside from their 10-player depth chart, their five starters are capable of double-digit point averages in the season. Donovan Mitchell makes an impressive plea for All-Star nomination with 28.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 1.4 steals per game. However, Mitchell is outside for tonight’s matchup.
Darius Garland is also a threat for the Cavs, averaging 21.4 points, 2.8 rebounds, 7.8 assists and 1.2 steals per game and 10 double-doubles this season. Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley are also young big men who can do double-doubles a night, with season averages of 13.9 points and 9.8 rebounds for Allen and 14.5 points and 8.8 rebounds for Mobley. Not to mention, the Cavs also enlist the services of Kevin Love, Caris LeVert, Isaac Okoro, Cedi Osman and Ricky Rubio night after night.
The Cavs also allow opponents to make 45.8 points in the paint, good for third in the league. Her 109.2 defensive stats and 74.2% defensive rebound percentage are both the top two in the league.
Why the Grizzlies might be covering the spread
After a gradual transition of their players recovering, the Grizzlies are now the hottest team in the NBA, ranking second in the West and securing first in the Southwest Division.
The main reason for their recent success has been their dynamic offense and stifling defense. The Grizzlies have 117.6 points per game, ranking fourth in the league. Their defensive matrices were very good – first on rebounds at 49.2, second on blocks at 6.1, fifth on fouls at 21.5, and sixth on steals at eight a night. The young team with an average age of 25.9 dominates the game in all facets. Their strong all-around game looks like they’re not tied to any signs of slowing down.
With Danny Green still out for the Grizzlies and John Konchar likely to play, Taylor Jenkins’ deep roster has evolved over time. All-Star Ja Morant continues to show impressive numbers of 27.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, 7.9 assists and 1 steal night in, night out. Jaren Jackson Jr. and Steven Adams form one of the NBA’s most feared frontcourts, averaging near double-doubles this season. Adams is averaging 8.3 points, 11.3 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game, in addition to his 12 double-doubles he made during the season. Jaren Jackson Jr., who was activated mid-season and has only played 27 games so far, has amassed 16.6 points, 6.8 rebounds, a steal and 3.3 blocks per game, which means five double-doubles to his name .
Final Cavaliers-Grizzlies Prediction & Selection
Both sides go into this game with both teams capable of delivering solid offensive performances and confident defensive plays thanks to their prolific starters and dependable backups. Memphis might look impressive with their 10 straight wins, but these games aren’t runaway victories as they’ve suffered shocking hand-to-hand combat performances from the Spurs, Jazz and Magic. Don’t be fooled that the Grizzlies can easily cover the 7.5 spread as the Cavaliers have been impressive all season.
Both teams are going into this game rested. This will be a close game, but expect the Cavs to finish the game just six points down.
Final Cavaliers-Grizzlies Prediction & Pick: Cleveland Cavaliers: +7.5 (-106)