Grizzlies Face Raptors in Crucial November 2nd Matchup
The Memphis Grizzlies and Toronto Raptors will meet in a critical matchup on November 2nd. Both teams are currently navigating challenges this season, looking to regain their footing. Memphis is dealing with internal issues, including the suspension of star player Ja Morant.
Grizzlies Overview
With a record of 3-3, the Grizzlies sit 9th in the Western Conference. Their offensive rating stands at 113.0, ranking 24th in the league, while their defensive rating is 116.0, placing them 20th overall. Currently, they hold a net rating of -3.0, which is 21st in the NBA.
- Key Player: Cedric Coward – Averaging 15.5 points per game with a 74% true shooting percentage.
- Another Highlight: Jaren Jackson Jr. – Averaging 17.2 points per game with a 63.2% true shooting percentage.
Despite Morant’s absence, Jackson Jr. is expected to lead the Grizzlies offensively. His versatile scoring ability makes him a challenge for opponents. However, Memphis has struggled with perimeter creation beyond its star players and faces rebounding issues, which Toronto may exploit.
Raptors Outlook
The Raptors are currently 2-4 and rank 11th in the Eastern Conference. They have an offensive rating of 114.9, placing them 16th, while their defensive rating is 118.4, putting them 25th. Their net rating of -3.5 ranks 23rd in the league.
- Recent Performance: Toronto recently secured a victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers, marking just their second win this season.
- Key Players: Immanuel Quickley and RJ Barrett are expected to exploit Memphis’ defensive weaknesses.
Toronto’s energetic ball pressure could be effective against the Grizzlies, particularly as Memphis lacks notable ball handlers. Key players like Brandon Ingram and Scottie Barnes are in excellent form, which should provide Toronto ample opportunities to score.
Game Details
The matchup is set to tip off at 6:30 p.m. ET, taking place at Rocket Arena. Fans can watch the game live on TSN.
Projected Starting Lineups
| Memphis Grizzlies | Toronto Raptors |
|---|---|
| PG: Javon Small | PG: Immanuel Quickley |
| SG: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope | SG: RJ Barrett |
| SF: Jaylen Wells | SF: Brandon Ingram |
| PF: Jaren Jackson Jr. | PF: Scottie Barnes |
| C: Jock Landale | C: Collin Murray-Boyles |
Injury Report
- Toronto Raptors: Jakob Poeltl (Back) – Out; Jamal Shead (Illness) – Questionable
- Memphis Grizzlies: Ty Jerome (Calf) – Out; Zach Edey (Ankle) – Out; Brandon Clarke (Knee) – Out; Scotty Pippen Jr. (Toe) – Out; Ja Morant (Suspension) – Out
As of November 2nd, oddsmakers have set the Raptors as 5.5-point favorites, indicating their anticipated advantage in this matchup against the Grizzlies.