Memphis Grizzlies vs Portland Trail Blazers
PREVIEW: The Portland Trail Blazers (9-14) travel to Memphis to face the Grizzlies (10-13) on Sunday at 3 p.m. at FedExForum. Portland is in the fourth game of a five-game road trip, having gone 1-2 so far with wins at Cleveland and losses to Toronto and Detroit. The Blazers rank near the bottom defensively with inefficient rim attack (27th), poor rebounding on defense (29th), and inefficient three-point shooting (30th), though they do excel at grabbing offensive boards (2nd in OREB% at 30.8%) and attempt threes at high volume (3rd in three-point attempt frequency).
Deni Avdija has been dominant recently, averaging 31 points, 10 rebounds, and 9.2 assists over his last five games while attempting at least 14 free throws in each outing. Memphis has won six of its last eight games, including a 107-98 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday. The Grizzlies feature a strong post-up game (3rd in frequency), quick tempo (6th), and good ball movement (7th in passing), though they rank low in attacking the rim (25th) and allow opponents moderate three-point attempts (23rd). Eight different Memphis players are averaging double digits in scoring this season, demonstrating the depth that has fueled their recent success. Both teams will be dealing with injury concerns, as Portland lists several players out including Scoot Henderson and Damian Lillard, while Memphis has Ja Morant listed as doubtful.