Cedric Coward Says Kevin Durant Has Become a Mentor: 'I Talk to Him a Lot' Memphis Grizzlies rookie Cedric Coward has described Kevin Durant as a mentor figure in his first NBA season, crediting the veteran forward for offering guidance and emphasizing the importance of persistence. Coward, the 11th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, shared his experiences with R.org, highlighting how Durant has become a frequent post-game confidant and source of wisdom. The two regularly exchange insights after games involving the Grizzlies and Durant’s team, with Coward expressing confidence that opportunities to learn from other stars like LeBron James and Stephen Curry will arise in the future. Coward’s relationship with Durant has centered on the theme of perseverance, a message he believes has been instrumental in his development. The 22-year-old forward, who averaged 13.6 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 2.8 assists in 62 games this season, noted that Durant’s perspective on the game has helped him navigate challenges. “Honestly, just keep going, no matter what happens,” Coward said. “No matter if you have frustrations with losing, good games or bad games, the work will show above everything.” He added that Durant’s enduring passion for basketball has been a key factor in his success, warning that losing love for the game can lead to decline. Coward, who has drawn comparisons to Kawhi Leonard and Jalen Williams for his shooting mechanics and defensive versatility, acknowledged the pressure of being likened to elite players. However, he stressed the importance of maintaining his individual identity while learning from the best. “There’s only one of each,” he said, referencing Leonard and Jalen Brown. “But at the same time, a lot of people will tell you that it’s a copycat league.#lebron_james #kevin_durant #memphis_grizzlies #stephen_curry #cedric_coward
Brandon Clarke’s Passing Sparks Reflection on NBA Mental Health and Resilience Brandon Clarke, the Memphis Grizzlies forward, died at the age of 29 on Monday, marking the tragic end of a career defined by perseverance and resilience. The news sent shockwaves through the NBA community, with teammates, coaches, and fans mourning the loss of a player whose impact extended far beyond the court. Clarke, who had battled multiple injuries over three seasons, was remembered for his unwavering positivity and support for others, even as his own health struggles threatened to derail his career. The circumstances of Clarke’s death remain unclear, but the article highlights the broader challenges faced by NBA players dealing with chronic injuries, mental health struggles, and the pressures of professional sports. Clarke’s teammates described him as a source of joy and encouragement, even during his most difficult moments. One player recalled how Clarke helped a teammate struggling for playing time, offering words of affirmation and patience. Another noted that Clarke’s integrity and kindness made him a standout in a league where injuries often lead to bitterness and isolation. The piece delves into the mental health crisis within the NBA, drawing parallels to the opioid epidemic and the unique vulnerabilities of athletes. Clarke’s injuries, which forced him to miss over two-thirds of games in recent seasons, likely contributed to his emotional struggles. The article references other high-profile players, such as DeMar DeRozan and Kevin Love, who have openly discussed their battles with anxiety despite their success and wealth. These cases underscore the idea that financial stability and fame do not shield athletes from the psychological toll of their profession.#mental_health #nba #memphis_grizzlies #brandon_clarke #chronic_injuries
NBA's Friday slate sees at least 168 out with injury or illness The NBA’s Friday night slate was marked by a significant number of players sitting out due to injuries or illnesses, with no fewer than 168 athletes sidelined. Among the affected teams, the Memphis Grizzlies had 14 players held out, highlighting the widespread impact of the health issues across the league. The games played on this night were the 81st of the regular season for all teams, with most resting on Saturday before the final games of the season on Sunday. The Oklahoma City Thunder and Denver Nuggets faced notable absences, as both teams’ star players were ruled out. The Thunder’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning MVP, and the Nuggets’ Nikola Jokic, a three-time MVP, were among those missing. The Thunder, already secured the No. 1 seed in the playoffs, prioritized rest and health over competition, with coach Mark Daigneault emphasizing that the team had earned the right to manage their players’ bodies after 80 games. The Nuggets, however, still had seeding to play for, and Jokic’s participation in one more game was crucial for his eligibility for postseason awards. Coach David Adelman hinted at a discussion over the weekend to determine Jokic’s availability for Sunday’s game. The San Antonio Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama, needing to play 20 minutes to meet the 65-game requirement for postseason awards, was taken out after hitting exactly that threshold. However, he returned to the game, finishing with 40 points, 13 rebounds, and five assists in 26 minutes during a 139-120 win over the Dallas Mavericks. Wembanyama expressed relief at meeting the criteria, while Spurs coach Mitch Johnson noted the team’s focus on gaining experience without overexerting players.#nba #denver_nuggets #san_antonio_spurs #oklahoma_city_thunder #memphis_grizzlies
Mike Conley News: Good to Go for Friday Mike Conley is expected to return to the lineup for Friday’s game against the Houston Rockets, according to the latest injury report. The Memphis Grizzlies point guard, who sat out Wednesday’s matchup against the Orlando Magic, will be available for the upcoming contest. Conley’s absence on Wednesday was part of a strategic decision by the team, but his availability for Friday’s action signals a potential return to full participation. The Grizzlies’ backcourt will face challenges on Friday, as several key players are listed as questionable for the game. Anthony Edwards, who is dealing with a knee injury, Ayo Dosunmu (calf) and Bones Hyland (hip) are all expected to miss time, creating a need for additional minutes from available players. Conley’s return could provide crucial depth, particularly if the team’s starting backcourt is unable to play due to injuries. Conley’s status for Friday’s game comes after a rest day on Wednesday, which allowed the team to manage his workload. While the Grizzlies have not provided specific details about the nature of his rest, the decision to sit him for one game suggests a cautious approach to ensure his long-term availability. The team’s medical staff will likely monitor his condition closely to determine whether he can contribute fully in the upcoming matchup. The game against the Rockets is a significant opportunity for the Grizzlies to address their backcourt rotation. With multiple players sidelined, Conley’s presence could help stabilize the team’s offensive output. His ability to create opportunities for teammates and his experience in high-pressure situations make him a valuable asset in such scenarios.#houston_rockets #memphis_grizzlies #anthony_edwards #ayo_dosunmu #mike_conley
The Radical Necessity of the NBA Nice Guy The NBA has long been associated with intensity, competitiveness, and a culture that often equates toughness with success. Yet, a growing number of players are challenging this narrative by redefining what it means to be a "nice guy" in the league. For these athletes, niceness is not a weakness but a strategic advantage that enhances their performance, relationships, and longevity in the sport. From seasoned veterans to rising stars, the league’s kindest players are proving that being considerate, empathetic, and socially aware can be just as valuable as physical dominance or a killer instinct. The word "nice" itself has a complex history, evolving from its Latin roots to take on meanings ranging from "wanton" to "thoughtful" over centuries. In modern NBA parlance, however, the term has taken on a different connotation. While it can describe a skillful play—like Cade Cunningham’s midrange stepback or Stephen Curry’s no-look three—it often carries a backhanded edge when applied to players. Being called "nice" can imply a lack of competitiveness, a trait that many in the league have historically associated with failure. Yet, players like Mike Conley are rejecting this notion, arguing that niceness and competitiveness are not mutually exclusive. Conley, a 19-year veteran with 1,200+ career games and zero technical fouls, is a prime example of this philosophy. Since joining the Memphis Grizzlies in 2007, he has become a cornerstone of the Grit ’n’ Grind culture, a stabilizing force for teams like the Utah Jazz and Minnesota Timberwolves. Despite being a non-starter for the first time in his career this season, Conley’s role remains unchanged: a leader who prioritizes team success over individual glory.#nba #minnesota_timberwolves #utah_jazz #memphis_grizzlies #mike_conley
Memphis Grizzlies y Olivier-Maxence Prosper buscan respuestas ante los Chicago Bulls A solo nueve partidos de terminar la temporada regular, el entrenador de los Memphis Grizzlies, Tuomas Iisalo, enfoca su atención en el partido contra los Chicago Bulls, que visitarán el viernes. Los Grizzlies, con un récord de 24-49, enfrentan desafíos tras una temporada marcada por lesiones, incluyendo la salida del base estrella Ja Morant, el pívot Zach Edey y varios suplentes clave. Iisalo busca evaluar a jugadores alternativos, con el objetivo de mejorar su desempeño en la contienda por un puesto en el play-in. Entre los candidatos destacan Olivier-Maxence Prosper, quien ha asumido un rol de titular y ha demostrado su valor en la cancha. El alero de 2,03 metros, en su tercera temporada en la NBA y primera con los Grizzlies, firmó un contrato multianual el 4 de marzo tras una temporada inicial con un contrato de doble vía. En el partido contra los Houston Rockets, Prosper anotó 31 puntos, su mejor marca individual, con un 12 de 15 en tiros de campo, cuatro triples y siete rebotes. Su actuación fue clave para evitar que los Rockets conviertan la derrota en una derrota abrumadora. Iisalo elogió el enfoque y la dedicación de Prosper, destacando su compromiso con el trabajo en los entrenamientos. "No se trata solo de dedicarle horas, sino de lo que él le dedica a esas horas", afirmó el entrenador. Prosper, seleccionado en la primera ronda del draft de 2023, jugó sus primeras dos temporadas con los Dallas Mavericks antes de ser fichado por los Grizzlies tras su desvinculación en agosto. Expresó gratitud por el contrato multianual y confía en su proceso: "Tengo fe en mí mismo y confío en que todo saldrá bien". Los Bulls, por su parte, enfrentan una racha negativa.#chicago_bulls #memphis_grizzlies #billy_donovan #olivier_maxence_prosper #tuomas_iisalo
Nikola Jokic posts double-double Nikola Jokic nearly recorded a triple-double in Denver’s loss to the Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday, finishing with 29 points, 14 rebounds, nine assists, three blocks, two three-pointers, and one steal. Despite his all-around performance, a season-high 10 turnovers plagued the Nuggets, with three of those occurring in the fourth quarter alone. These turnovers contributed to Denver’s 12 team turnovers in the final frame, further complicating their efforts to secure a win. Jokic’s 29 points came on 11-of-19 field goal shooting and 5-of-8 free throw attempts, showcasing his efficiency despite the turnovers. His 14 rebounds highlighted his dominance on the boards, while his nine assists underscored his ability to distribute the ball effectively. However, the Nuggets’ struggles with ball security became a critical issue, particularly in the fourth quarter, where the team’s turnover count surged. The loss has placed the Nuggets in a precarious position as they approach the NBA Play-In Tournament. With the team’s record now in jeopardy, the recurring issue of turnovers has raised concerns about their ability to maintain consistency in the final stretch of the regular season. Coach Michael Malone and the team will need to address these mistakes quickly, as the Play-In represents a crucial opportunity to secure a playoff spot. Jokic’s performance, while impressive, was overshadowed by the Nuggets’ inability to protect the ball. His 10 turnovers marked a significant departure from his usual composure, and the team’s overall handling of the ball in the fourth quarter proved costly. As the Nuggets look to bounce back, Jokic’s leadership and ability to minimize turnovers will be key to their success in the remaining games.#denver_nuggets #nikola_jokic #memphis_grizzlies #michael_malone #nba_play_in_tournament
Nikola Jokic makes NBA history with all-time turnover record The Denver Nuggets fell 125-118 to the Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday, marking a surprising loss for the Nuggets as Memphis ended an eight-game losing streak. Nikola Jokic, the Nuggets’ star center, contributed 29 points, 14 rebounds, and nine assists but also recorded 10 turnovers in 38.5 minutes of play. This performance secured Jokic the record for the most 10+ turnover games by an NBA center in history. According to Real App, Jokic now holds the distinction of having the most such games in the league. This marks his fourth career game with double-digit turnovers, following instances in 2017, 2020, and 2022. The loss pushed Denver’s Western Conference record to 42-28, placing them in sixth place in the conference. Despite the setback, Jokic continues to dominate statistically, averaging a triple-double with 28.2 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 10.5 assists per game this season. Jokic’s 10-turnover games have occurred in the following matches: December 20, 2017, against the Minnesota Timberwolves (22 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 10 turnovers) December 29, 2020, versus the Sacramento Kings (26 points, 10 rebounds, 12 assists, 10 turnovers) November 3, 2022, at the Oklahoma City Thunder (15 points, 13 rebounds, 14 assists, 10 turnovers) March 18, 2026, against the Memphis Grizzlies (29 points, 14 rebounds, 9 assists, 10 turnovers) This milestone highlights the challenges Jokic faces in balancing his offensive impact with defensive responsibilities, as turnovers remain a recurring issue despite his overall dominance. The record underscores the unique position of a center in the modern NBA, where playmaking and ball-handling are increasingly expected, even as traditional roles evolve.#denver_nuggets #oklahoma_city_thunder #nikola_jokic #memphis_grizzlies #real_app
Victor Wembanyama solidified his case for league MVP with a dominant defensive performance as the San Antonio Spurs defeated the Memphis Grizzlies 123-98, securing home-court advantage in the first-round playoffs. The 7-foot-4 French forward finished with 19 points, 15 rebounds, and seven blocks, while adding two steals in 27 minutes. His efforts came after he argued that his defensive prowess should be the primary factor in his MVP consideration. The Spurs’ victory extended their winning streak to seven games and improved their record to 23-2 since February. The win also marked the team’s first 55-win season since the 2007-08 Boston Celtics, who had fewer than 35 wins the previous year. The Spurs’ 55-18 record now trails the Oklahoma City Thunder’s 57-16 mark by just two games in the Western Conference standings with nine regular-season games remaining. Wembanyama’s performance was highlighted by his ability to alter shots and disrupt Memphis’ offense. By halftime, he had already recorded five blocks, and he finished the game with seven. His defensive impact was so pronounced that it was difficult to track all the shots he forced the Grizzlies to miss. The Spurs’ victory also featured standout contributions from Devin Vassell, who scored 19 points on 70% shooting, and six players who reached double-figure scoring totals. The game’s most dramatic moment came when Wembanyama chased down GG Jackson II after the Grizzlies forward had scored on a fast break, slamming the ball over Jackson for a thunderous dunk. The Spurs’ dominance on both ends of the court was evident, as they outscored Memphis 63-36 in the paint and limited the Grizzlies to just 38% shooting. Memphis’ loss extended their losing streak to four games and their skid to 12 straight contests dating back to December.#san_antonio_spurs #mitch_johnson #victor_wembanyama #memphis_grizzlies #devin_vassell
San Antonio Spurs vs Memphis Grizzlies injury report: Who's playing, injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (March 25, 2026) The San Antonio Spurs will face the Memphis Grizzlies on March 25, 2026, in an NBA matchup at FedExForum. The game, scheduled for 8 p.m. ET, pits a top-tier team against one struggling to avoid a poor season. The Spurs enter the contest with a 54-18 record, still in playoff contention, while the Grizzlies sit at 24-47 and aim to avoid finishing near the bottom of the standings. Despite the gap in overall performance, injuries on both sides could influence the outcome. The Spurs’ injury report shows limited absences, though key players are sidelined. De’Aaron Fox, a guard averaging 17.6 points and 6.3 assists over the past 20 games, is out with lower back tightness. Luke Kornet is unavailable due to a right knee issue, and David Jones-Garcia remains out for the season after ankle surgery. Memphis, however, faces a more severe injury list, with ten players sidelined. This has forced the Grizzlies to rely on G-League call-ups like Cedric Coward and adjust their roster to compensate for the depth loss. The Grizzlies’ injury list includes several long-term absences. Ja Morant, their star point guard, is out for the season after a left elbow UCL sprain. Santi Aldama, a power forward, is also out for the year following knee surgery. Zach Edey, a center, is sidelined with an ankle injury, while Scotty Pippen Jr. is out for the season after right big toe surgery. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, a shooting guard, is out following finger and post-surgery complications. Brandon Clarke, a forward, is out with a right calf strain, and Ty Jerome is sidelined with a left ankle sprain. Jaylen Wells, another forward, is out with a right great toe injury.#de_aaron_fox #san_antonio_spurs #memphis_grizzlies #fedexforum #ja_morant
Ziaire Williams' Scorching Stretch Gives Nets Clear Offseason Answer The Brooklyn Nets have struggled with offensive consistency this season, ranking last in the league with an average field goal percentage of 44.3% and an offensive rating of 108.7. Since the start of March, their efficiency has declined further to 43.4%, yet Ziaire Williams has emerged as a bright spot for the team. His recent performance has positioned him as a key player in the Nets’ plans for the upcoming offseason. Williams, who signed a two-year, $12.5 million contract with the Nets in September 2025, has delivered standout play over the past 11 games. The 6-foot-9 forward has averaged 12.8 points, 2.3 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.5 steals while shooting an elite 51.2% from the field, 51.4% from beyond the arc, and 90.7% from the free-throw line. His ability to score efficiently and defend at a high level has made him a critical piece for the Nets’ success. In six of his last 11 games, Williams has scored 15 or more points, and he has recorded at least one steal in every contest during this stretch. His impact was on full display during the Nets’ 107-105 victory over the Detroit Pistons on March 7, where he scored 23 points off the bench to help the team pull off a 23-point comeback. This performance highlighted his role as a reliable scoring threat and a defensive anchor for the team. Beyond scoring, Williams’ defensive contributions have been instrumental in the Nets’ ability to transition from defense to offense. His relentless hustle and long arms have allowed him to disrupt passing lanes and create fast-break opportunities. In the Nets’ two wins this month against the Pistons and Memphis Grizzlies, Williams posted an impressive offensive rating of 127.5 and a defensive rating of 94.7.#detroit_pistons #memphis_grizzlies #brooklyn_nets #ziaire_williams #nets_front_office
Houston Rockets vs. Minnesota Timberwolves Game Preview The Houston Rockets face a critical matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves on March 26, 2026, as both teams prepare for a high-stakes contest. The game, set for an ESPN broadcast, marks what the Rockets’ fanbase is calling “the most important game of the season.” However, the Rockets have a troubling history of underperforming in similarly hyped situations. Despite the significance of the occasion, the team’s recent record on national television has been lackluster, with a predicted win-loss tally of around 3-15 in such games. The Timberwolves’ absence of star player Anthony Edwards adds another layer of challenge for the Rockets. Historically, the Rockets have struggled to capitalize on opponents missing key players, as seen in past matchups against teams like the Golden State Warriors. This trend raises concerns about how the Rockets will approach the game, especially with the Timberwolves likely to rely on their depth and role players. The matchup also highlights the Rockets’ potential vulnerabilities. With Edwards sidelined, the Timberwolves may adjust their strategy, forcing the Rockets to adapt quickly. The game’s outcome could serve as a turning point for the Rockets’ season, particularly given their recent struggles on national television. Analysts and fans alike are bracing for a difficult night, with many predicting a loss that could signal the end of the current Rockets’ iteration. Looking ahead, the Rockets’ next game is scheduled for Friday, March 27, against the Memphis Grizzlies. The team will need to regroup after this matchup, as the pressure to perform continues to mount.#minnesota_timberwolves #houston_rockets #memphis_grizzlies #golden_state_warriors #anthony_edwards
NBA Expansion to Seattle and Vegas: Pros and Cons The NBA is set to expand into Seattle and Las Vegas, marking the return of a Seattle Sonics franchise after nearly two decades. The league’s Board of Governors is expected to vote on the proposal during a meeting this week, with strong support anticipated from league officials. Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated and NBA on NBC highlighted the potential benefits and drawbacks of the expansion, emphasizing its significance for both markets. The expansion would bring the NBA’s total teams to 32, adding two new franchises in Seattle and Las Vegas. Mannix noted that both cities are well-positioned for success, with Seattle boasting an established fan base and Las Vegas already proving its viability as a pro sports hub. The Las Vegas Raiders and Golden Knights have thrived there, and Mannix predicted the city’s new NBA team would also thrive, given its growing reputation beyond a temporary destination. Seattle’s return of the Sonics could reignite local enthusiasm, with fans likely to embrace the team as it did in its previous era. However, the expansion raises concerns about the league’s competitive balance. Mannix warned that adding two new teams would dilute the talent pool, leading to more underperforming franchises in the short term. He pointed out that the NBA already struggles with a third of its teams being mediocre, and the addition of two more weak teams could exacerbate this issue. While rule changes and draft adjustments might mitigate some of the challenges, the league risks creating a scenario where several teams have little chance of competing effectively. Another point of discussion is whether struggling franchises like the Memphis Grizzlies or New Orleans Pelicans should be relocated instead of expanding.#las_vegas #nba #seattle #memphis_grizzlies #chris_mannix
Luke Kornet Injury: Ruled Out for Wednesday Game By RotoWire Staff | March 24, 2026 San Antonio Spurs forward Luke Kornet (right knee) has been ruled out for Wednesday’s matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies. The injury management protocol will keep him sidelined for the contest, with his next opportunity to play scheduled for Saturday’s game against the Milwaukee Bucks. In Kornet’s absence, Kelly Olynyk and Mason Plumlee are expected to see increased playing time in the frontcourt. Both players could step into larger roles behind Victor Wembanyama, who will remain a key contributor for the Spurs. Win Your League With RotoWire! Unlock our premium fantasy basketball tools to stay ahead in your league. Recent RotoWire Articles Featuring Luke Kornet NBA DFS Picks: FanDuel Top Plays and Strategy for Thursday, March 12 NBA DFS Picks: FanDuel Top Plays and Strategy for Thursday, March 12#milwaukee_bucks #san_antonio_spurs #victor_wembanyama #memphis_grizzlies #kelly_olynyk
Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams is set to return for Monday's game against the Philadelphia 76ers after being cleared from the injury report, sources confirmed to ESPN. The 26-year-old will make his first appearance since suffering a strained right hamstring in late January, ending a five-plus-week absence. Williams, who has previously strained the same muscle twice this season, will play with 11 regular-season games remaining. The injury has significantly limited Williams' impact this season, as he has only appeared in 26 games. A third-team All-NBA selection last year, the forward has struggled to regain his form following a wrist injury that required surgery. Williams initially missed the first 19 games of the season to recover from the procedure, which addressed a torn scapholunate ligament in his shooting wrist. He delayed the surgery to focus on the playoffs, averaging 21.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game during the Thunder's championship run. Despite relying on pain-killing injections, he has faced challenges in restoring his shooting accuracy, posting a career-low 31.3% from beyond the arc this season. Williams' hamstring injury first flared during a Jan. 17 matchup against the Miami Heat, forcing him to miss the next 10 games. He returned for a Feb. 9 win over the Los Angeles Lakers but aggravated the strain two days later during a 28-point performance against the Phoenix Suns. The injury cut short his standout game, as he limped off the floor after scoring 11 of 12 shots in 20 minutes. The Thunder, currently tied for the league's best record at 56-15, have relied heavily on depth amid a wave of injuries. The team's 11-game winning streak since Shai Gilgeous-Alexander returned from an abdominal strain has been a key factor in their success.#oklahoma_city_thunder #shai_gilgeousalexander #jalen_williams #philadelphia_76ers #memphis_grizzlies
Atlanta Hawks vs. Memphis Grizzlies: A Battle for the Sweep The Atlanta Hawks are set to host the Memphis Grizzlies in a crucial matchup that marks the second encounter of the season. The Hawks are aiming to secure a season sweep over the Grizzlies, a team that has shown little interest in winning games during the latter part of the season. This game presents an opportunity for the Hawks to build momentum as they prepare for upcoming challenges against the Detroit Pistons and Boston Celtics. The Hawks entered the game after a strong rebound from their previous contest, where they bounced back from a loss to the Houston Rockets. In a game against the Golden State Warriors, the Hawks faced difficulties without star forward Jalen Johnson, who was sidelined. However, they managed to turn things around in the second half, outscoring the Warriors and securing a decisive victory. This performance highlighted the team's resilience and ability to adapt, even in the absence of key players. The matchup against the Grizzlies is particularly significant as it serves as the final meeting between the two teams this season. In their first encounter on January 21, the Hawks emerged victorious with a score of 124-122 at FedExForum. Jalen Johnson was instrumental in that game, recording 32 points, 15 rebounds, and eight assists in 39 minutes of play. His performance marked his 25th points/rebounds double-double of the season, showcasing his consistency. Onyeka Okongwu contributed 18 points and nine rebounds, while CJ McCollum added 15 points and six assists. Nickeil Alexander-Walker also played a key role with 11 points, four assists, and two blocks. The biggest question heading into this game is whether Jalen Johnson will be available.#atlanta_hawks #memphis_grizzlies #jalen_johnson #c_j_mccollum #onyeka_okongwu
Grizzlies vs Hawks Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NBA Game The Atlanta Hawks are favored to defeat the Memphis Grizzlies in Monday night’s matchup, with the spread set at Hawks -14.0 (-110). The Hawks, riding a 10-game home winning streak and a 12-1 record in their last 13 games, are expected to dominate a struggling Grizzlies team. Memphis has lost 10 of its last 11 games and faces significant challenges with a hobbled roster, as key players like Ja Morant are sidelined. The Grizzlies’ recent performance has been dismal, with a 23-point loss to the Charlotte Hornets and three consecutive road losses by 16 points or more. The Hawks’ dominance is highlighted by their +12.8 point differential over their last 10 games, contrasting sharply with the Grizzlies’ struggles. Analysts predict the Hawks will cover the spread comfortably, leveraging their strong home performance and the Grizzlies’ lack of depth. The game is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, with coverage available on FDSN-Memphis and FDSN-Atlanta. For same-game parlays, Dyson Daniels is a key focus for the Hawks. The 23-year-old forward has shown consistency, hitting over 13.5 points and 6.5 rebounds in six of his last eight games. While the Over is a strong bet for Daniels, the Under is also recommended, as both teams have underperformed totals in recent matchups. Another potential play is Onyeka Okongwu, who has averaged 1.9 made three-pointers per game in his last 10 contests. His Over 3.5 assists and Over 1.5 made threes are viable options for bettors looking for value. Odds for the game include a moneyline of Grizzlies +625 and Hawks -950, with the Over/Under set at 240.5 (-110). The Hawks’ betting trend supports their favoritism, as they are 11-2 ATS in their last 13 games.#atlanta_hawks #memphis_grizzlies #state_farm_arena #onyeka_okongwu #dyson_daniels
Pistons' Isaiah Stewart to miss at least 1 week with left calf strain Detroit Pistons center Isaiah Stewart has sustained a grade 1 left calf strain, sidelining the key reserve big man for at least four games as the East-leading Pistons aim to secure their position atop the conference standings heading into the 2026 NBA playoffs. The injury will require Stewart to undergo a re-evaluation in one week, leaving him out of action for the upcoming contests against the Wizards and Warriors, as well as the Lakers. Stewart, 24, returned to the court for the first time in seven games after a suspension for his role in a Feb. 9 altercation between the Pistons and Charlotte Hornets. In his seventh game back, he logged 20 minutes in a 126-110 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies, contributing 10 points, 4 rebounds (3 offensive), 1 assist, and 1 block. However, Pistons head coach J.B. Bickerstaff expressed concerns about Stewart’s movement, noting that the player had been struggling with the injury for some time. “Stewart has been dealing with it,” Bickerstaff said before a 119-108 loss to the Toronto Raptors, according to Omari Sankofa II of the Detroit Free Press. “It just had been kinda getting worse. He gutted it out last game and you could see he was favoring it and he was hobbling around a little bit late in his minutes.” Despite Stewart’s absence, the Pistons have maintained strong performance, posting a 9-3 record without him. The team outscores opponents by 11.8 points per 100 possessions when Stewart is inactive, a stat that gives confidence in their ability to hold onto the No. 1 seed in the East. However, the Pistons have faced recent challenges, including five losses in their last eight games, with setbacks against the Spurs, Miami, Cleveland, and Toronto.#toronto_raptors #detroit_pistons #memphis_grizzlies #j_b_bickerstaff #isaiah_stewart
The Grizzlies are already losing one crucial part of the Jaren Jackson Jr. trade Somehow, it still doesn’t feel real that Jaren Jackson Jr. is playing for another team besides the Memphis Grizzlies. Despite signing a five-year, $240 million contract extension last summer, Jaren Jackson Jr. was traded to the Utah Jazz just two days before this season’s trade deadline. It is still too early to strongly judge the trade, but one key aspect is already going wrong for the Grizzlies. The main goal of trading Jaren Jackson Jr. was to create flexibility and secure more draft capital for the rebuild, which has been accomplished. As far as players go, Georges Niang was waived almost immediately, and Kyle Anderson was eventually bought out after he wanted to join a contender. This leaves the Grizzlies with two young players and former first-round picks in Taylor Hendricks and Walter Clayton Jr. Taylor Hendricks has shown promise despite suffering a major injury last season and is expected to be a long-term contributor for the team. The hope was for Walter Clayton Jr. to provide a boost to a point guard position already stocked with depth. However, despite Clayton Jr. being a rookie and the small sample size, his struggles are a major concern. Clayton Jr. has not found a rhythm on offense, and his performance has raised questions about his ability to adapt to the NBA. Walter Clayton Jr. really burst onto the scene as a senior at Florida and was the biggest reason the Florida Gators won the 2025 National Championship. His impressive shotmaking and ability to thrive in high-pressure moments significantly boosted his draft stock. He was selected 18th overall in the 2025 NBA Draft, but his rookie season in Memphis has been a challenge. The biggest strength of Clayton Jr.#utah_jazz #memphis_grizzlies #jaren_jackson_jr #walter_clayton_jr #taylor_hendricks
Celtics, Grizzlies injury reports show one team will be extremely depleted The Boston Celtics will enter Friday’s matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies with a full roster, barring the absence of center Nikola Vucevic, who is set to miss his seventh consecutive game. Meanwhile, the Grizzlies face significant challenges due to a wave of injuries, leaving them severely understaffed. Vucevic, who fractured his right ring finger on March 6, is expected to return to the court between March 27 and April 3. The Celtics initially projected his recovery to take three to four weeks, and with the regular season concluding on April 12, there is potential for him to rejoin the team in time for the postseason. Tatum, meanwhile, has remained available for the past two weeks, having missed just one game since his return to the lineup. The forward has averaged 20.7 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 4 assists per game, serving as the Celtics’ second-leading scorer. The Grizzlies, however, have struggled with injuries throughout the season, with multiple key players sidelined. Among the affected roster members are Kentavius Caldwell-Pope (right pinky finger), Zach Edey (left ankle), Scotty Pippen Jr. (right big toe), and Santi Aldama (right knee). Additionally, Brandon Clarke (right calf strain), Jahmai (left ankle sprain), and Ja Morant (left elbow UCL sprain) are all out. Taj Gibson (right foot soreness) and GG Jackson (left knee soreness) are listed as doubtful for Friday’s game. The Celtics’ current form contrasts sharply with the Grizzlies’ struggles. Boston enters the matchup on a three-game winning streak with a 46-23 record, while Memphis has lost eight of its last 10 games and holds the West’s 11th-best record at 24-44. The teams last met in November, with Boston securing a 131-95 victory.#boston_celtics #jaylen_brown #memphis_grizzlies #nikola_vucevic #cedric_coward
