The Denver Nuggets are on a mission to extend their impressive six-game road winning streak as they face the Memphis Grizzlies in a Western Conference showdown. The Grizzlies, currently sitting at 12th in the Western Conference with a record of 18-25, will be looking to disrupt the Nuggets' momentum. The game takes place in Memphis, Tennessee, on Sunday at 3:30 p.m. EST.
The Grizzlies have a strong record against Western Conference opponents, standing at 14-14. Their offensive rebounding prowess is notable, averaging 11.8 rebounds per game, with Zach Edey leading the way with an impressive 3.9 average. However, the Grizzlies' season-long field goal percentage of 45.6% is 1.2 percentage points lower than the Nuggets' allowed percentage of 46.8%.
The Nuggets, on the other hand, boast a conference record of 18-8. They have a knack for close games, going 6-5 in contests decided by three points or fewer. Denver's offensive output is impressive, averaging 13.9 made 3-pointers per game, which is 0.5 fewer than the Grizzlies' allowed average. The two teams have already faced each other this season, with the Nuggets emerging victorious in their last encounter on November 25, scoring a 125-115 win. Jamal Murray and Jock Landale were the top performers for their respective teams.
Looking at the top performers, Jaren Jackson Jr. of the Grizzlies is averaging a solid 18.9 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks. Meanwhile, the Nuggets' Aaron Gordon is on fire, shooting 50.9% and averaging 17.7 points. However, the Grizzlies have some key players sidelined due to injuries, including Scotty Pippen Jr., Ja Morant, Zach Edey, Ty Jerome, Brandon Clarke, and Santi Aldama. The Nuggets also have their fair share of injury concerns, with Cameron Johnson, Tamar Bates, Jonas Valanciunas, Nikola Jokic, Christian Braun, Peyton Watson, and Jamal Murray all missing games due to various injuries.
In their last 10 games, the Grizzlies have struggled, going 3-7. Their performance has been inconsistent, with averages of 114.4 points, 46.4 rebounds, 29.2 assists, 7.0 steals, and 5.5 blocks per game. The Nuggets, on the other hand, have been on a roll, winning 7 out of their last 10 games. Their averages in that period include 107.3 points, 39.0 rebounds, 24.5 assists, 6.7 steals, and 4.4 blocks per game. The Nuggets' field goal percentage in these games has been 44.9%, while their opponents have averaged 108.6 points.
This game promises to be an intriguing contest, with both teams having their fair share of strengths and weaknesses. The Grizzlies will be eager to prove themselves, while the Nuggets aim to continue their winning streak. The outcome will be determined by who can rise to the challenge and make the most of their opportunities.
