We’ve got an NBA pick from tonight’s schedule. This is from one of the Winner’s Edge contributors, Greg Dempson. Greg’s been on a nice run with college and NBA plays the past month or so. This pick is from the Memphis Grizzlies vs. Orlando Magic Friday night matchup.
They will tip-off at the Kia Center just after 7 p.m. ET. These two have met once already this season, with Memphis booking a 124-111 win on their home court way back in October. Truth is, who cares. That games has virtually zero to do with this matchup months later in Orlando.
What is relevant is Memphis getting roughed up last night by the Indiana Pacers, with that one finishing up 127-113. The Grizz were 1-point favorites. They didn’t look great on the defensive side of the game, and were foul-happy, sending the Pacers to the free throw line often. Meanwhile, Orlando put together a 114-108 win over the Atlanta Hawks last night, cashing as a 1-point favorite.
In this one, Greg is on the Grizzlies to cover in the first quarter. They’re laying one-point. Memphis rank number one in the league in points scored in the first quarter, at 31.7. Orlando averages 27.1 overall. After that dud performance last night, look for them to start fast, and continue their pattern all season of being a top performer out of the gate in these opening quarters.
Greg Dempson Play: Take the Memphis Grizzlies -1 in the 1st quarter.