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Houston Rockets vs. Memphis Grizzlies: Preview, Predictions and Picks for January 9, 2025

Updated on:
Jan 9, 2025 8:05 PM
The Houston Rockets are looking to extend their impressive road winning streak to five games as they take on the Memphis Grizzlies at the FedExForum on Thursday, January 9, 2025, at 8:00 PM. Both teams are off to strong starts, with the Rockets sitting second in the Western Conference and the Grizzlies right behind them in third. This matchup promises to be an exciting battle between two of the NBA's top teams.
Houston Rockets vs Memphis Grizzlies

Current Odds

HOU
MEM
Over
250.5
-114
Under
251.5
-110
HOU
-8.5
-105
MEM
+7.5
+102
HOU
ML
-259
MEM
ML
+360

Memphis Grizzlies recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
1/6/25 vs Dallas Mavericks W 119-104
1/4/25 @ Golden State Warriors L 121-113
1/3/25 @ Sacramento Kings L 138-133
12/31/24 @ Phoenix Suns W 117-112
12/29/24 @ Oklahoma City Thunder L 130-106

Houston Rockets recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
1/7/25 @ Washington Wizards W 135-112
1/5/25 vs Los Angeles Lakers W 119-115
1/3/25 vs Boston Celtics L 109-86
1/1/25 vs Dallas Mavericks W 110-99
12/29/24 vs Miami Heat L 104-100

Memphis Grizzlies injuries

  • Ja Morant (PG): Out
  • Desmond Bane (SG): Day-To-Day
  • Jaren Jackson Jr. (PF): Day-To-Day
  • Santi Aldama (PF): Out
  • GG Jackson II (F): Out

Houston Rockets injuries

  • Tari Eason (F): Out
  • Jabari Smith Jr. (PF): Out

Rockets vs Grizzlies game info

Type Info
Venue FedExForum
Location Memphis, TN
Tip-off Thu 8:00 PM

Rockets vs Grizzlies predictions

As the Houston Rockets aim for their fifth consecutive road win, eyes will be on Jalen Green to lead the charge. With a knack for racking up points, Jalen's expected to contribute significantly, averaging around 20.7 points on the night. Meanwhile, Fred VanVleet, renowned for his court vision and playmaking prowess, is set to dish out about 6.4 assists while also chipping in on the scoreboard. Alperen Sengun will likely be dominating the glass, possibly boosting his rebounding stats to well over 12 in this matchup. It’s clear that Houston has a well-rounded roster, ready to bring energy to the FedExForum.

On the Memphis side, Jaren Jackson Jr. is always a player to watch, especially since he's been averaging over 22 points when he's on the court. Even if he's not at full speed with that thigh soreness, never underestimate his ability to perform under pressure. Desmond Bane, another key player for the Grizzlies, might be day-to-day with a sprained ankle, but if he makes it to the court, his ability to both facilitate and score can tilt the game in Memphis' favor. Zach Edey will be pivotal in controlling the interior, with his proficiency for pulling down boards and altering shots critical to the Grizzlies' strategy.

Predicting the winner of this exciting matchup isn't easy, given the neck-and-neck standings of both teams in the Western Conference. With little separating their records—Houston stands at 24-12 and Memphis at 24-13—the Rockets' recent form on the road might just edge them slightly ahead. However, playing in Memphis, where the Grizzlies boast a formidable 15-4 home record, levels the playing field. Ultimately, the game could come down to how well the Rockets can crack the Grizzlies' defense. For those craving a thrilling NBA encounter, this game promises to deliver, but if I had to pick, I'd say Houston's current momentum gives them the upper hand. Who do you see coming out on top?

Memphis Grizzlies

Houston Rockets

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