The numbers say these two Western Conference squads are looking to start their regular season strongly when the Memphis Grizzlies host the Utah Jazz on Thu, 22 Oct, 11:00 am AEDT. Utah put up 117.6 points per game last campaign, but conceded a heavy 126 opponent points per game. Memphis held a slightly tighter defensive profile, giving up 120.7 points per game while generating 114.7 points on offence.

With both teams eager to set an early tone, the stat lines give us plenty of edges to dissect. If you are hunting for value NBA tips ahead of tip-off, the defensive contrast jumps off the page.

Head-to-Head: Jazz favoured on offensive output

Utah enters as the 1.78 head-to-head favourite, while Memphis sits at 2.05 as home outsiders. The Jazz finished last season with a 22-60 record and a -8.05 SRS rating. Their ability to score 117.6 points per game gives them firepower, but leaking 126 points per game kept them anchored near the bottom of the ladder.

Memphis put together 25 wins and 57 losses with a -5.83 SRS rating. Allowing 120.7 points per game shows the Grizzlies were relatively firmer at the back compared to Utah. Utah rates a real chance to claim the victory on the back of their higher scoring ceiling, making them the head-to-head preference.

Head to HeadOdds correct as at 12:14 am AEDT. Odds can change.
Solid tickOur tip: Utah Jazz. Utah averages 117.6 points per game and rates a real chance to outscore Memphis head-to-head.

Tipped at $1.78 (7:14 pm AEDT). Opinion, not a guarantee. Gamble responsibly — 18+.

Line Analysis: Grizzlies backed with the start

In line betting, Memphis gets a +2.5 start at 1.87, having firmed from 1.91→1.87 (firmed). Utah lays -2.5 at 1.94, drifting from 1.91→1.94 (drifted).

The numbers say Memphis has the tighter defensive setup, allowing 120.7 points per game against Utah's 126 points conceded. That 5.3-point defensive advantage gives the home side a big tick to cover the +2.5 line in what projects as a close contest.

LineOdds correct as at 12:14 am AEDT. Odds can change.
Solid tickOur tip: Memphis Grizzlies +2.5. Memphis firmed from 1.91→1.87 (firmed) on the line and conceded fewer points per game than Utah.

Tipped at $1.87 (7:14 pm AEDT). Opinion, not a guarantee. Gamble responsibly — 18+.