The Memphis Grizzlies are heading into the 2024-25 season looking to bounce back from a rough 27-55 campaign. Last year was severely impacted by injuries and Ja Morant’s lengthy NBA suspension and season-ending shoulder surgery, leaving the team well below expectations.
However, with Morant returning and a retooled roster, Memphis aims to return to playoff contention in a competitive Western Conference. DraftKings Sportsbook has set their win total at 47.5, with -110 odds on both the over and under, reflecting the balanced uncertainty about their upcoming season.
The Ja Morant Factor
Ja Morant’s return is the biggest storyline for the Grizzlies this season. After playing just nine games last year due to a 25-game suspension and a shoulder injury, Morant’s absence left Memphis struggling to find a rhythm. When healthy, he is one of the most explosive players in the league and has previously led Memphis to consecutive No. 2 seeds in the West.
If Morant can stay on the floor and regain his All-Star form, Memphis has a strong chance to exceed 47.5 wins. His ability to break down defenses and lead their fast-paced attack will be essential for the team to return to the upper echelon of the West. His performance will be the biggest X-factor for those betting on Memphis’ season.
Supporting Cast Health
Injuries didn’t just affect Morant last season. Desmond Bane and Marcus Smart also missed significant time, which severely limited the Grizzlies’ potential. Bane, one of the NBA’s premier shooters, and Smart, a defensive stalwart, are essential to Memphis’ success. A healthy Bane stretches the floor and provides secondary scoring, while Smart adds veteran leadership and perimeter defense.
Jaren Jackson Jr., a former Defensive Player of the Year, also stepped up last season, expanding his offensive role. Perhaps with their core players healthy and playing together, the Grizzlies should have enough firepower to push for the over on 47.5 wins. However, their ability to stay on the court will be a crucial factor in whether they hit that mark.
New Additions and Depth
The Grizzlies added some intriguing pieces this offseason, including 7-foot-4 rookie center Zach Edey. He’s expected to bring a necessary boost in rebounding and size that could help solidify Memphis’ interior defense, a gap left by Steven Adams’ injury last season.
While his development will take time, Edey’s size and skills make him an interesting addition, though there are concerns about his quickness and ability to handle NBA-level athleticism.
Memphis also brings back Luke Kennard, whose shooting will be key in providing spacing for Morant and Bane to operate. The team’s depth could play a significant role in managing injuries or foul trouble, giving them an edge if the roster stays intact.
Can Zach Edey Enhance the Grizzlies’ Play Style?
When healthy, Memphis thrives in transition, with Morant leading one of the fastest, most dynamic offenses. Bane’s shooting and Jackson’s two-way play give them versatility on both ends of the floor. Defensively, Jackson and Smart anchor a tough unit capable of locking down opponents.
However, the Grizzlies have struggled in slower, half-court offensive sets, particularly when forced to play out of their comfort zone. This remains their biggest question mark. If either Bane or Jackson carries over how they performed in a larger role with Morant, perhaps they can exceed expectations.
Edey should enhance the Grizzlies’ pick-and-roll offense, but his NBA readiness is still uncertain. Morant’s talent should help shorten the acclimation process for Edey, though. If Memphis can find more consistency in these areas, their outlook for the season brightens considerably.
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All odds provided by DraftKings Sportsbook and all odds subject to change.
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