The Memphis Grizzlies were a Game One buzzer beater by Kevin Durant from being up two games to none in their series vs. Oklahoma City. The impressive part of that is the fact that those two games were on the road. It has become clear the Oklahoma City offense is not playing at the same level without Russell Westbrook. That can be easily determined by the fact that Oklahoma City scored less than 100 points just six times all season when playing at home, and at no time did they ever score less than 100 in consecutive games on their home floor this season. Their 93 points scored in each of the first two games in this series represented their third lowest totals of the season at home. Now they must take to the road where Memphis is even tougher defensively. The Grizzlies allowed 100 points or more at home just three times all season. Oklahoma City played tough defense in the two games at home, but realizing their offense isn't quite as smooth without Westbrook, they know they are going to have to be at their defensive best early, and not let the crowd get into the game. Oklahoma City as it is, has played to a 20-6-2 under mark in their last 28 overall, and this team will be defined by defense early in this game. Memphis' calling card is defense, and I expect the same from them. They have also been 7-0 ATS in their last seven games vs. a team over .600. Memphis and the first half UNDER.
TAKE THE GUESSWORK OUT OF SPORTS BETTING
Get my free NBA picks and predictions.
Join 412,085 Subscribers!