The Atlanta Hawks and Memphis Grizzlies are set to face off on Monday, March 3, 2025, at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. This inter-conference matchup features two teams with different objectives as the season progresses. The Grizzlies are fighting to maintain their strong position in the Western Conference, while the Hawks are battling to secure a spot in the Eastern Conference play-in tournament. Here’s a detailed preview:
Team Overview
- Atlanta Hawks (27-33): The Hawks are currently ninth in the Eastern Conference and are in the thick of the play-in race. They have struggled since the All-Star break, going 1-4 in their last five games, including a 135-119 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder in their most recent outing. Atlanta has been inconsistent on the road, with a 14-18 record, and will need to improve defensively to compete with Memphis.
- Memphis Grizzlies (38-22): The Grizzlies are second in the Western Conference and have been one of the league’s most consistent teams this season. However, they have hit a rough patch recently, going 2-4 since the All-Star break, including a narrow 130-128 loss to the San Antonio Spurs in their last game. Memphis has been dominant at home, boasting a 22-8 record, and will look to bounce back in this matchup.
Key Players to Watch
- Atlanta Hawks:
- Trae Young: Young leads the Hawks with 27.1 points and 10.2 assists per game. His ability to create offense and control the tempo will be crucial for Atlanta’s success.
- Clint Capela: Capela is a force on the boards, averaging 11.2 rebounds per game. His interior presence will be key in limiting Memphis’ second-chance opportunities.
- Dejounte Murray: Murray provides a strong two-way presence, averaging 21.3 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 5.8 assists. His defensive effort will be vital in containing Memphis’ backcourt.
- Memphis Grizzlies:
- Jaren Jackson Jr.: Jackson is coming off a career-high 42-point performance against the Spurs and is averaging 23.1 points and 5.9 rebounds this season. His ability to stretch the floor and protect the rim makes him a key player for Memphis.
- Ja Morant: Morant is the engine of the Grizzlies’ offense, averaging 26.8 points and 8.1 assists per game. His explosiveness and playmaking will be a challenge for Atlanta’s defense.
- Desmond Bane: Bane has been a consistent scorer for Memphis, contributing 21.4 points per game. His three-point shooting will be critical in spacing the floor for the Grizzlies.
Matchup Analysis
- Offense vs. Defense: The Hawks rank eighth in the league in points per game (120.2) but have struggled defensively, allowing 121.6 points per game over their last 10 outings. The Grizzlies, meanwhile, have been solid on both ends, averaging 121.6 points while allowing 122.4 points in their last 10 games. Memphis’ ability to capitalize on Atlanta’s defensive lapses could be a deciding factor.
- Rebounding Battle: Both teams are strong on the boards, with Atlanta ranking second in offensive rebounds per game (11.8) and Memphis excelling in defensive rebounding. Controlling the glass will be critical for both teams to establish their tempo.
- Key Battle: The duel between Trae Young and Ja Morant will be a highlight. Both guards are capable of taking over the game, and their performances could heavily influence the outcome.
Injury Report
- Atlanta Hawks: Georges Niang (illness) is out, while Trae Young (right Achilles tendinitis) is probable. Vit Krejci and Larry Nance Jr. remain out.
- Memphis Grizzlies:
Atlanta Hawks 250
Memphis Grizzlies – 6.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Sunday, February 2, 2025
