Memphis vs Toronto Match Preview: The Memphis Grizzlies will face off against the Toronto Raptors on February 24th in what promises to be an exciting matchup between two young and promising teams. The Grizzlies will be looking to improve their record and build on their impressive start to the season, while the Raptors will be seeking to make a push for the playoffs.
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Memphis Grizzlies Review
The Memphis Grizzlies are the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference with a 35-22 record at the 2023 All-Star break. The Grizzlies were 31-13 at one point, but they lost eight of nine games before rallying with three wins out of four entering the break. Some key injuries have hurt Memphis at times, and this team has some question marks to address in order to be a legitimate NBA title contender as this season comes down the home stretch.
As the 2023 season nears its end, the Memphis Grizzlies have shown promise with their young core of Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Dillon Brooks. Morant has continued to showcase his electric playmaking ability, while Jackson Jr. has improved his three-point shooting and defense. Brooks has been a consistent scorer and defender for the team.
The continued development of Jaren Jackson Jr. and Dillon Brooks will be key. Memphis is third in fast-break points this year, with an average of 17.6 points per night. The problem with relying heavily on transition baskets is adjusting to a slower-paced and physical game in the postseason.
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Since the Grizzlies’ defense is so stellar, their approach is to force their opponents to commit mistakes and pounce on them instantly. They are second in blocks and fourth in steals in the Association, but the problem is that other teams will commit lesser lapses in the postseason.
Toronto Raptors Review
As the 2023-2024 NBA season approaches, the Toronto Raptors find themselves in a period of transition. Following the departure of star player Kyle Lowry, the Raptors will rely heavily on the development of young players such as Fred VanVleet, OG Anunoby, and Pascal Siakam. The team has also added several promising rookies, including Scottie Barnes and Delano Banton, who could play significant roles this season.
Toronto is the more well-rested team in this setting, and the Raptors make opponents uncomfortable with a physical, aggressive style of play. The Raptors lead the league with 9.3 steals per game, and Toronto is No. 2 in the NBA with 16.6 turnovers created per contest. Toronto yields only 12.1 second-chance points per game, and the Raptors are in the top 10 in blocked shots and points allowed in the paint.
On offense, the Raptors also have clear strengths as Toronto leads the NBA in turnover prevention, committing only 11.7 giveaways per game. The Raptors also leave a mark on the offensive glass with top-four metrics in second-chance points (16.7 per game) and offensive rebound rate (31.6%). Toronto generates transition opportunities that lead to 18.0 fast break PPG, and the Raptors also create 25.0 free throw attempts per game, ranking in the top third of the league.
Memphis vs Toronto Match Prediction
Both teams will need to improve their shooting and perimeter defense in order to compete in their respective conferences, and this game will provide an opportunity for them to test themselves against a quality opponent. The Grizzlies have been strong defensively, ranking in the top ten in the league in defensive rating, and will look to continue that trend against the Raptors.
One key matchup to watch will be between Morant and VanVleet, two talented point guards with different styles of play. Morant will look to use his speed and explosiveness to get to the rim, while VanVleet will rely on his shooting and playmaking ability to control the game. The battle in the paint between Jackson Jr. and Siakam will also be crucial, as both players possess the ability to score from inside and outside the paint.
Predicting the winner of a basketball game is never an exact science, but the February 24th matchup is shaping up to be a closely contested affair. Overall, this game should be a competitive and entertaining matchup between two promising teams. While the Grizzlies have the advantage of playing at home, the Raptors have the talent and experience to pull off an upset. It will be an important game for both teams as they look to establish themselves as contenders in their respective conferences
Memphis vs Toronto Probable Starters
Memphis Grizzlies
PG Ja Morant
SG Desmond Bane
SF Dillion Brooks
PF Jaren Jackson Jr.
C Brandon Clarke
Bench
C Steven Adams
PG Tyus Jones
SG Luke Kennard
SF Johan Konchar
C Xavier Tillman Sr.
SF Zaire Williams
Toronto Raptors
PG Fred VanVleet
SF Scottie Barnes
PF Pascal Siakam
PF Precious Achiuwa
C Jakob Poeltl
Bench
SF O. G Anunoby
SG Gary Trent Jr.
PG Malachi Flynn
SF Thaddeus Young
C Chris Boucher
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