Game Preview: Nuggets Host Grizzlies
The Nuggets are home after going 1-2 on a three game road trip. Now that they are back home, the Nuggets will be hosting Marc Gasol and the Memphis Grizzlies.
The Nuggets, who are 7-2 at home, have a chance to continue their home winning streak against the Grizzlies, who are 3-4 on the road. As of right now, ESPN has calculated a 67.1% chance of Denver winning tonight’s matchup.
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The Grizzlies, who have beat Denver in their last three matchups (2 of them were in Denver) have lost their last six games and 8 of their last 10.
A few basic, yet key stats for tonight is that Denver has won 6 of their last 10 games. We are averaging 46.4% from the field, 45.2 rebounds per game, and 23.6 assists per game. Memphis averages 44.4% from the field, 40.8 rebounds per game, and 20.7 assists per game.
Keys to the Game
Denver has to take control of the game right away. When they played Sacramento on Sunday, they controlled the game from the start and took the easy win. They need to do the same tonight.
With the home court advantage (that altitude is always so helpful), we need to set the pace. Being a top-10 rebounding team, we also need to make sure that we control the glass on both sides.
Another issue that we have continued to have is having turnovers. The Grizzlies will likely try to force turnovers so the Nuggets need to be sharp and make sure that they do not leave room for mistakes.
The third thing that Denver needs to ensure is that when they get to the line, they need to make their shots. Right now, Denver
Matchup of the Night: Jokic & Gasol
Nikola Jokic is Denver’s leading scorer, averaging 15.7 points per game and is shooting 50.2% from the field. Jokic has also been very useful at the free throw line, as he is shooting 88.2% from there. Jokic also leads Denver in rebounds and assists. Marc Gasol is Memphis’ leading scorer, averaging 19.4 points per game, 42.2% from the field, and 82% from the line.
The basic aforementioned would show that Jokic (obviously the younger of the two) has the upper hand in this matchup.
Prediction
To keep this one short and sweet, I think the Nuggets will continue their good work at home and take the win over Memphis. My personal prediction is that the Nuggets will end things 108-102 over the Grizzlies.