Thunder vs Grizzlies Free Pick, NBA Free Picks, NBA Predictions 3/5/25
- J.A. Cavalier
- Mar 5
- 3 min read
OKLAHOMA CITY @ MEMPHIS (OKC -7.5, 249.5)
NBA ODDS, NBA PREDICTIONS, NBA PREVIEWS
THUNDER @ GRIZZLIES 3/5/25
The Memphis Grizzlies are in a rough patch, having lost three straight in the final seconds of the game. Tonight, they host the West-leading Oklahoma City Thunder. The Grizzlies will need to contend with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder's stud and a strong contender for the league's Most Valuable Player award. His recent 51-point performance in the Thunder's victory over the Houston Rockets was his fourth 50-point game in less than two months. This, along with the fact that the Thunder have bagged 50 wins this season, clearly marks them as another difficult opponent.
The situation worsens for the Grizzlies as their All-Star forward, Jaren Jackson Jr. has been sidelined due to an ankle injury. Jackson, the team's top performer, could have been instrumental in checking Gilgeous-Alexander. Notably, Gilgeous-Alexander's 50-point game streak started with a victory over the Utah Jazz. He continued to outperform himself in games against the Golden State Warriors and Phoenix before last Monday's explosive game.
Despite Gilgeous-Alexander's impressive feats, he remains humble and focused on the game, showing no signs of complacency. However, the Grizzlies, who have been struggling with multiple injuries and lost six out of their last eight games. They have slipped from second place in the Western Conference to their current spot in fourth.
Tonight’s game against the Thunder will be a test of their determination and grit as they look to turn things around. The Grizzlies have shown glimpses of their potential with standout performances from Ja Morant and veteran players like Jonas Valanciunas and Dillon Brooks.
On Monday, Desmond Bane had his first career triple-double, but it wasn’t enough to beat the Hawks. Bane scored 35 points, grabbed 10 rebounds, and dished out 10 assists. Memphis led 128-121 with four minutes to play, but a Caris LeVert breakaway layup in the final seconds sealed a 132-130 victory for Atlanta.
Memphis also recently acquired veteran forward Gorgui Dieng in a trade with the Minnesota Timberwolves, adding depth to their frontcourt. With key players returning from injury and new additions to the roster, the Grizzlies are determined to make a push towards the playoffs.
Beating the Thunder will be a chore. Oklahoma City has won each of the last seven games against Memphis. The Thunder are 6-1 ATS in those seven games.
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COACH RICK FREE PICK:
Game Total OVER 250.5
As good as the Thunder’s defense is, it’s offense has been even better over the last few weeks. OKC has won 6 of its last 7 games and the Thunder scored 128 points or more in all seven. They went Over 130 in 5 of the 7. It’s no surprise then that the Over is 7-0 in those games. The total has gone Over in 4 of Memphis’ last 5 games. That’s primarily because the Grizzlies defense is falling apart. Memphis allowed 129 or more in 4 of their last 5 games. Tonight’s total opened at 246.5 and is up 4 points.