The Memphis Grizzlies will take on the Golden State Warriors in the fourth of five NBA Christmas Day games on Sunday, Dec. 25 at 8 p.m. ET.
What once looked like the potential highlight of the schedule may now be the worst, as Warriors guard Stephen Curry is sidelined with a shoulder injury. However, there are still some great bets we can make ahead of the action.
See how I have this one going in my Memphis vs Golden State best bets and predictions.
Grizzlies vs Warriors Odds
As of Thursday, Dec. 22 at 1 p.m. ET, the Grizzlies are listed as 3.5-point favorites at bet365 Sportsbook. Previously, the Warriors were listed as 4.5-point favorites, though that line has shifted dramatically in Memphis’ favor in the wake of Curry’s injury.
Grizzlies vs Warriors Implied Totals
Grizzlies 114.75, Warriors 111.25
Bookmakers have the Grizzlies barely edging out the Warriors in what is projected to be an average-scoring game. The total is set at 226 points.
Grizzlies vs Warriors Pick of the Day
Read more on this Grizzlies vs Warriors bet below.
Grizzlies vs Warriors Prediction
Grizzlies 111, Warriors 103
This Warriors team is almost nothing without Curry. Before his injury, he was averaging 30 points, 6.8 assists, and 6.6 rebounds per game, and Golden State was 0-3 in the few contests he had missed.
Moreover, through Dec. 14, the Dubs were 11.1 points per 100 possessions worse with Curry off the floor. Now, they’ll have to endure a full game without their MVP against a Grizzlies team that ranks inside the top 10 in both points scored and allowed per game.
Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. will put on a show for Memphis, with Morant flying through the air for easy looks at the rim and Jackson sending away shots at the other end of the floor. Jordan Poole and Klay Thompson will only be able to do so much without Curry.
Golden State’s saving grace is that their defense at home has been much better at home this season compared to on the road, but I don’t believe they’ll be able to score enough points to keep pace with the Grizz.
Grizzlies vs Warriors Bet Tips
Here are a few Grizzlies vs Warriors betting trends to consider before making your bets. Note that all statistics are current as of Thursday, Dec. 22.
- The Grizzlies are 14-14-2 against the spread, while the Warriors are 14-19.
- Golden State is 10-4 ATS at home, while Memphis is 3-11-1 on the road.
- Overs are a combined 34-27-2 for the Warriors and Grizzlies.
Grizzlies vs Warriors Best Bets
Grizzlies -3.5 (-110) at bet365 Sportsbook
I have the Grizzlies winning the game by eight points, and I would be comfortable backing them against the spread up to 4.5 points. This figures to be a close game, and Memphis’ road ATS record is concerning.
Under 226 Total Points (-110) at bet365 Sportsbook
The Under looks like the best bet to make with Curry sidelined for the Warriors. Memphis is fantastic on the defensive end of the floor, which will help limit the overall scoring in this contest.
Grizzlies vs Warriors Props
Check out the best Grizzlies vs Warriors player prop bets for NBA Christmas Day with our props comparison tool. Click on “Show More Games" below to find the Memphis vs Golden State game and see all of its prop bets.
