After a challenging round of predictions, going 6-5 and bringing our season record to 34-18 with a 65.3% accuracy rate, we’re aiming to rebound in tonight’s 4-game slate.
We kick off with the Memphis Grizzlies taking on the Milwaukee Bucks, followed by the Dallas Mavericks facing the Houston Rockets. Next, the Utah Jazz go head-to-head with the San Antonio Spurs, and the night wraps up as the Los Angeles Clippers clash with the Phoenix Suns.
Let’s break down each matchup and strive to improve our performance tonight!
Milwaukee Bucks At Memphis Grizzlies – 8 PM EST
Bucks Current Record: 1-3
Grizzlies Current Record: 2-3
Bucks Injuries: Giannis Antetokounmpo – Day To Day (Knee), Khris Middleton – Out (Ankle)
Grizzlies Injuries: Marcus Smart – Day To Day (Ankle), Desmond Bane – Day To Day (Oblique), Luke Kennard – Out (Fott), GG Jackson II – Out (Foot), Vince Williams Jr. – Out (Shin), Cam Spencer – Out (Ankle)
Last 5 Meetings: Grizzlies Lead 5-0
The Bucks, despite their recent struggles, have two dominant forces in Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard. However, the Bucks have lacked depth, particularly with Khris Middleton sidelined. Their scoring depth is limited, and while they rank high in field goal efficiency, their turnover rate and defensive consistency have been concerns, allowing opponents an average of 119 points per game.
The Grizzlies bring energy with Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Desmond Bane. Jackson’s recent performance has been a bright spot, and Bane remains a consistent shooter from three. Memphis plays at a high pace and ranks near the top in assists, but their defense has struggled, allowing 121.6 points per game. They are also on the second night of a back-to-back, which could impact their stamina against a Bucks team seeking redemption after three straight losses.
Prediction: Bucks def. Grizzlies 122-118
Houston Rockets At Dallas Mavericks – 8:30 PM EST
Rockets Current Record: 2-2
Mavericks Current Record: 3-1
Rockets Injuries: Steven Adams – Day To Day (Knee)
Mavericks Injuries: Maxi Kleber – Out (Hamstring), Dante Exum – Out (Wrist)
Last 5 Meetings: Mavericks Lead 4-1
The Dallas Mavericks host the Houston Rockets at American Airlines Center, aiming to build on their strong early-season start. Dallas, led by Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, has showcased offensive firepower and resilient fourth-quarter performances, evidenced in their recent road victory over the Timberwolves.
The Mavericks also bring depth, with contributions from Klay Thompson and their bench, enhancing their versatility. Defensively, Dallas has maintained solid defensive efficiency, making it difficult for opponents to close games late.
On the other hand, the Rockets, a young and evolving squad, are relying on veterans Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks to stabilize their lineup. While Houston’s offense revolves around Jalen Green’s scoring, they’ve struggled with consistency, particularly in shooting and rebounding. Given the Mavericks’ proven closing ability and defensive edge, they are likely to capitalize on Houston’s inexperience, making them strong contenders to secure a win at home.
Prediction: Mavericks def. Rockets 121-115
San Antonio Spurs At Utah Jazz – 9 PM EST
Spurs Current Record: 1-3
Jazz Current Record: 0-4
Spurs Injuries: Devin Vassell – Out (Foot), Tre Jones – Out (Ankle)
Jazz Injuries: Lauri Markkane – Day To Day (Back), Taylor Hendricks – Out (Ankle), Isaiah Collier – Out (Hamstring)
Last 5 Meetings: Jazz Lead 3-2
The San Antonio Spurs face the winless Utah Jazz at the Delta Center. Both teams are navigating early-season struggles and inconsistent offensive performances, making this a crucial game for momentum. San Antonio has seen standout performances from rookie Victor Wembanyama, averaging 16.8 points and 9.3 rebounds, and Jeremy Sochan. However, scoring efficiency remains an issue, with the Spurs averaging just over 108 points per game.
The Jazz, led by Jordan Clarkson and newcomer Keyonte George, have yet to find offensive rhythm, averaging only 106.5 points per game while conceding 118.9 points to opponents. Utah’s defense has also been inconsistent, contributing to its slow start.
Given the Jazz’s home-court advantage and San Antonio’s fatigue from consecutive games, Utah has a slight edge. This contest is likely to stay competitive, with both teams aiming to exploit defensive lapses to secure an early-season win.
Prediction: Spurs def. Jazz 118-110
Phoenix Suns At Los Angeles Clippers – 10:30 PM EST
Suns Current Record: 3-1
Clippers Current Record: 2-2
Suns Injuries: Bradley Beal – Day To Day (Elbow), Josh Okogie – Out (Hamstring)
Clippers Injuries: Mo Bamba – Out (Knee), Kawhi Leonard – Out (Knee), P.J. Tucker – Out (Away from team)
Last 5 Meetings: Clippers Lead 3-2
The Los Angeles Clippers will host the Phoenix Suns at the new Intuit Dome in what promises to be a competitive rematch. In their season opener on October 26, the Suns narrowly edged out the Clippers in a 116-113 overtime win. The Clippers are looking to rebound after a recent 106-105 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers. Nick Powell led the Clippers’ offense in that game, scoring 30 points, but they ultimately couldn’t close the game despite an eight-point lead in the fourth quarter.
On the other hand, Phoenix comes into this matchup recently defeating the Los Angeles Lakers 109-105. The Suns were boosted by strong performances from Devin Booker and Kevin Durant, who combined for 63 points. The Suns have shown resilience, with their three wins against high-caliber teams like the Lakers, Mavericks, and Clippers, hinting at their early season strength.
Given the Clippers’ current challenges at home, expect the Suns to put up a strong fight and potentially secure another close win.
Prediction: Suns def. Clippers 123-114
