The Toronto Raptors are set to face off against the Memphis Grizzlies on December 26, 2024, at the FedEx Forum, eager to snap their dismal eight-game losing streak. The Raptors, currently languishing at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings with a 7-23 record, desperately seek redemption against the third-placed Grizzlies, who boast an impressive 20-10 record.
On the surface, the matchup contrasts two narratives: one of enduring hope amid decline and another of resurgence against adversity. With the Grizzlies’ key player, Ja Morant, cleared to play following various injuries, the team is exhilarated to bring their high-octane offense against the sluggish Raptors defense.
Raptors' standout RJ Barrett has emerged as their principal scoring option this season, averaging 23.5 points per game on 45.7% shooting. Even with star player Scottie Barnes back from injury, Barrett continues to shoulder the scoring load. He has put up over 22.5 points consistently over the past month, hitting 23 or more points six times out of nine games. Barrett is currently at -125 with PointsBet Canada to score over 22.5 points against Memphis.
Interestingly enough, Barrett has had to adapt to the Raptors’ recent shake-up, as center Jakob Poeltl remains sidelined due to injury. With this absence, Toronto has resorted to starting Jonathan Mogbo, measuring only 6 feet 6 inches, at center, altering their playing dynamic significantly. This smaller lineup can exploit the Grizzlies' slower interior play, especially with their rookie, Zach Edey, showing struggles on defense.
The Grizzlies welcomed this development, reveling over their recent stretch of success, winning seven of their last ten games. Memphis leads the NBA with 122.7 points per game, showcasing their prowess on the offensive end. Coach Taylor Jenkins' squad has benefitted substantially from Morant’s energy, contributing averaging 21.3 points, 7.9 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game. Reports have optimism surrounding Morant's return to peak performance, as he is projected to hit over 22.5 points against the Raptors, with betting odds currently favoring this at -110.
Despite their promising roster, the Grizzlies do have players listed on their injury report. Marcus Smart will sit out due to injury, and Colin Castleton, Jay Huff, GG Jackson, and Vince Williams Jr. are all unavailable for this matchup. Nevertheless, their all-around depth gives them the upper hand, especially against the Raptors, who are reeling from injuries to key players such as Immanuel Quickley and Bruce Brown.
When considering the betting odds, DraftKings Sportsbook has deemed the Grizzlies heavy favorites, sitting at -12.5 on the spread, with the Raptors trailing at +12.5. The total points over/under is set at 239.5. The Raptors have maintained some competitive spirit, covering the spread 4-3-1 over their last eight outings, but their overall performance raises concerns, especially during away games. Toronto’s abysmal 1-13 record on the road poses significant questions about their competitiveness.
The matchup not only highlights differing fates but also unveils the intrigue of individual performances. Barrett’s scoring potential against the Grizzlies' defense—ranked 15th for points allowed at 113.0 per game—coupled with Morant’s expected resurgence makes for compelling viewing. With Memphis’ high pace, leading to no shortage of fastbreak opportunities, Barrett’s scoring from transition plays could shine brightly.
Expectations for the game are palpable among fans and analysts alike; forecasts and predictions indicate the Grizzlies are poised to secure victory convincingly. Analysts from BetMGM project Memphis winning by at least 17 points, with hints at the total points likely remaining under 239.5.
This pivotal Boxing Day matchup could witness the Raptors grasping for light against the current of the Grizzlies’ strong momentum. Every dribble, every shot taken by the Raptors will carry the weight of their aspirations for the remainder of the season—a desperate fight for relevance as the NBA season trudges on.
