Just a couple years ago, this game would be a must-watch matchup between Zion Williamson and Ja Morant, the first and second overall picks in the 2019 draft. Much has changed since then, including the Pelicans and Grizzlies rosters.
While Williamson and Morant aren’t freshly drafted, they’re still elite players when on the floor. In what’s expected to be a competitive Western Conference, this should be an excellent matchup.
Memphis is a 4.5-point home favorite and -192 on the moneyline on DraftKings Sportsbook. New Orleans is a +160 road underdog. The total for this game is set at 237.5 points. Let’s get into my preview, prediction and pick for this Grizzlies vs. Pelicans game.
Grizzlies vs. Pelicans prediction, preview
While Williamson and Morant have had trouble staying on the floor in recent years, they’re both elite talents when available. Both are expected to play in their season opener on Wednesday, Oct. 22.
The Pelicans made a plethora of offseason moves, including trading for Jordan Poole. His addition alongside Trey Murphy III, Herbert Jones and Williamson will be exciting to watch. Will they be a playoff team? It’ll be an uphill battle in the West, but they should be competitive — as long as Williamson is healthy.
The Grizzlies have a similar roster to last year, adding some bench pieces in Ty Jerome and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. Jerome is out, as is Zach Edey and Brandon Clarke. It puts more pressure on Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., but the duo is more than capable of winning at home.
Grizzlies vs. Pelicans pick, best bet
The Grizzlies have home-court advantage, but I’m not sure that matters in this matchup. The Pelicans have the better roster led by Williamson. Maybe I’m buying too much into Williamson’s preseason physique, but the Pelicans should win this matchup.
The moneyline gives more value, but it’s a safer bet to run with New Orleans spread.