Memphis Grizzlies vs. Utah Jazz
Before we dive into the actual betting angle on this game, I need to preface it with important information. This is not a game I have bet yet. As summer leagues like this one in Utah enter their final days, fewer and fewer big names actually suite up as they start to prepare for the Las Vegas Summer League later in the week.
For example, Darryn Peterson has a big showdown on ESPN on Thursday night against the Washington Wizards and the prospect that went ahead of him the the NBA Draft — AJ Dybantsa. However, that’s still three days away, and this is a pretty good showcase against Cameron Boozer as well. Both of these teams played and won on Saturday and have had a day off between. The Salt Lake City Summer League concludes tomorrow, and by best guess would be that we see the stars play tonight on ESPN and then rest tomorrow to get ready for Vegas.
So while I’ll wait to see official lineups before wagering on this game, I think we should get some positive news in terms on who winds up playing. The Jazz should have a nice home crowd here, and if they put their full roster out there, have a terrific top-three. Cody Williams was a recent lottery pick, and Ace Bailey was a top-five picks in last summer’s draft. Both played well in Saturday’s overtime win against a solid Atlanta roster. But it was Peterson that led the way, looking every bit of the superstar prospect he is — dropping 28 points in 27 minutes.
However, it was the Grizzlies that dominated their matchup against a solid OKC roster on Saturday, highlighted by their depth of top-end talent. The five starters were all part of the seven players that scored in double figures for Memphis, which won by 37 points. While Boozer is the big name for the Grizz, he’s flanked by a handful of solid lottery talent — Cedric Coward, Taylor Hendricks and Olivier-Maxence Prosper.
While both rosters are strong, Memphis has more talent and depth. If this winds up a full strength matchup, the Grizzlies would be my side. Keep an eye out for the news, or just follow me on Twitter for an update if this turns into a play.
NBA Summer League Pick: Grizzlies -3.5 (-110)
