Memphis at Portland
Time: 9:30 PM CST
TV: ESPN
Spread: POR -3
Total: 189
Betting odds c/o Bovada
Memphis emerged from Game 1 big victors, winning Game 1 100-86, in a game that was far less close than the 14 point difference would indicate. The Grizzlies led by as many as 29 points, but frittered away some points in garbage time. It then stole game 2 in equally as dominant fashion, winning by 15 points to take a 2-0 series lead.
However, Memphis will be 3-point underdogs in Game 3 as the series shifts to Portland according to live NBA odds at Bovada. Oddsmakers set the total for the game at 189, and for an explanation of how to bet this see our NBA odds explained.
The Grizzlies may have stopped Portland in Game 1, but there is the hidden caveat for Portland that Mike Conley re-injured his ankle. Because Portland’s primary scorer Damian Lillard mans the 1-spot, this will be problematic for Memphis.
Terry Stotts said of backup Beno Udrih that “he’s been here a long time and he’s effective.” While that is true, it is crippling for the Grizzlies to be without Conley. He’s confident in Udrih as a backup, and with good reason; Udrih has carved out a career since beginning with the San Antonio Spurs 11 seasons ago. He’s a very good shooter and smart point guard, and that is picking up right after Conley.
Zach Randolph played well, despite missing a number of shots he typically knocks down. He finished with 16 points and 11 rebounds to lead Memphis, while free agent to-be Marc Gasol had 15 and 11. Jeff Green contributed 11, but it may have been the fear that the Grizzlies put into Portland with a big blowout that was most important. LaMarcus Aldridge simply called it “a wakeup call,” and added that the Grizzlies “manhandled them.”
Memphis came out and “manhandled” them again in Game 2, winning 97-82 to take a 2-0 lead in the best of 7. The Grizzlies put four starters in double figures and got 32 points from its bench. Amazingly, Memphis committed just five turnovers and had 44 points in the paint comparative to Portland’s 34.
The theme of Memphis bigs dominating Aldridge, Lopez is becoming a redundant one in this series. If the Blazers are to come back, it starts on the interior, which is typically a strength for Portland. The fact that it has been rendered just the opposite speaks to how strong the Memphis frontcourt can be.
The Blazers got 24 points from LaMarcus Aldridge but he hit just 7 of 20 from the floor and the team shot just 39 percent. Portland allowed 16 points off its 14 turnovers, which again was a big difference maker in the game. To win Game 3, the Blazers have to shoot the ball better and get it inside more. Aldridge is prone to settling for jumpers (which usually go in), but the issue has to be pressed at the rim that the Blazers are not going to just stand around looking for a whistle when the play gets physical.
Memphis will be walking wounded again with Zach Randolph and Beno Udrih both nursing ankle injuries, while Mike Conley has been battling his ankle problems as well. The Blazers will be without Wes Matthews of course (out for season), but Arron Afflalo is probable for the game and Chris Kaman is questionable. Kaman is dealing with a left ankle injury while Afflalo has been having shoulder problems but is expected to play.
RECENT TRENDS
Memphis
Grizzlies are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games vs. a team with a winning S.U. record.
Grizzlies are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.
Under is 4-0 in Grizzlies last 4 vs. a team with a winning S.U. record.
Portland
Under is 4-0 in Trail Blazers last 4 Conference Quarterfinals games.
Over is 6-0 in Trail Blazers last 6 home games following a road trip of 7 or more days.
Under is 4-0 in Trail Blazers last 4 vs. a team with a winning S.U. record.
Head to Head
Under is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings.
Grizzlies are 10-1 ATS in the last 11 meetings.
Grizzlies are 5-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings in Portland.
