The Memphis Grizzlies welcome the New Orleans Pelicans to the FedExForum Wednesday for the 2023-24 season opener. Tip is set for 8 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s'lines around the Pelicans vs. Grizzlies odds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions.
Season series: First meeting; teams split 4 games last season with each winning twice at home
The Grizzlies will open their season at home without G Ja Morant, who has been suspended 25 games. Memphis ended 2nd in the Western Conference last season at 51-31, including 35-6 at home. The Grizzlies will be led by G Desmond Bane, who averaged a career-high 21.5 points per game (PPG) last season. Memphis was 39-47-2 against the spread (ATS) last season.
New Orleans was 39-42-2 ATS last season and ended the season 42-40 straight up, good for 9th in the West. F Zion Williamson is expected to be healthy to start the season. He played just 29 games last season, but averaged 26 PPG when he did play. F Brandon Ingram averaged a career-high 24.7 PPG last season.