Memphis Grizzlies vs New Orleans Pelicans prediction & odds

The New Orleans Pelicans will face off against the Memphis Grizzlies at the Smoothie King Center on November 14, 2026. This matchup is particularly noteworthy as the Pelicans currently lead the series 1-0, having narrowly defeated the Grizzlies 135-134 in their last encounter on November 3, 2026. The stakes are high for both teams, especially with the Pelicans looking to break a four-game losing streak and the Grizzlies aiming to bounce back from their recent struggles.

In their last five games, the Pelicans have struggled significantly, recording one win and four losses. Their recent results include a dramatic overtime victory against the Utah Jazz (120-113) but have since lost to the Minnesota Timberwolves (115-109), LA Clippers (139-123), Golden State Warriors (138-87), and Brooklyn Nets (145-111). In contrast, the Grizzlies have also faced challenges, winning only one of their last five games. They suffered defeats against the New Orleans Pelicans, Indiana Pacers (107-103), and Oklahoma City Thunder (128-97) but managed to secure a win against the Toronto Raptors (118-102) before falling to the Denver Nuggets (123-118).

At home, the Pelicans have averaged 116.4 points scored while allowing 124.8 points over their last ten games. Their recent home performance has been particularly concerning, with a record of 3-3 and a last five record of 1-4, averaging just 110.0 points while conceding 130.0 points. On the other hand, the Grizzlies have averaged 117.4 points scored and 112.8 points allowed in their last ten games, with a record of 6-4. They have performed better on the road, maintaining a 5-0 away record, although their last five games show a record of 1-4, with an average of 114.0 points scored and 119.0 points allowed.

In terms of injuries, the Pelicans have several players listed with varying statuses. Bryce McGowens, Bennedict Mathurin, and Trey Murphy III are all day-to-day, while Trendon Watford and Yves Missi are out. The Grizzlies will be without Quinten Post, Zach Edey, Scotty Pippen Jr., and Richie Saunders, all of whom are out due to various injuries. The absence of key players on both sides could significantly impact the game dynamics.

The betting market reflects the competitive nature of this matchup, with DraftKings setting the odds at MEM -2.5, indicating that the Grizzlies are favored by 2.5 points. The total points line is set at 237.5, with over odds at -105.0 and under odds at -115.0. This suggests that a high-scoring game is anticipated, aligning with the offensive capabilities of both teams despite their recent struggles.

As the game approaches, viewers should watch for the performance of key players. For the Pelicans, Zion Williamson leads the team with an average of 21.7 points per game, while Jeremiah Fears contributes significantly with 4.9 assists per game. The Grizzlies will look to Ty Jerome, who has been impressive with 26.2 points per game, and Cameron Boozer, who not only scores well but also leads the team in rebounds with an average of 9.8 per game.

With both teams eager to improve their standings and the Pelicans looking to maintain their series lead, this matchup promises to be an exciting contest filled with potential for both sides.