The Memphis Grizzlies (43-25) and Sacramento Kings (33-33) have split their two matchups this season, with the home team winning both games. Recent results indicate Memphis taking care of business in this matchup, but you can never count out Sacramento at home (10 ET, League Pass).
Here are five things to know before tip-off:
1. Sacramento has dominated this series recently: Despite splitting their two matchups this year, the Kings have won four straight against Memphis. Those games have largely been one-sided, with Sacramento winning by an average of 20.3 points in those victories.
2. Memphis is looking for the two-seed: The Grizzlies have bounced back strong this season and are tied for second in the Western Conference, neck-and-neck with the Nuggets and Rockets. Memphis enters this matchup having won five of its last six games, including a dominant 125-91 victory over the Heat on Saturday.
3. Kings are looking to get back over .500: Sacramento was above .500 just two months ago, but a recent slump has dropped them to a 33-33 record. They come into this matchup having lost four straight and five of their last six games, now sitting ninth in the West, 3.5 games behind the Los Angeles Clippers.
4. Health will play a factor in this matchup: The Grizzlies were lucky to get Jaren Jackson Jr. back this weekend, but Ja Morant missed Saturday’s win with a shoulder issue. Sacramento has its own injury concerns, with Domantas Sabonis (hamstring) questionable for this game. He returned after a two-week absence on Friday but left in the fourth quarter after aggravating the injury.
5. Is there a high-scoring matchup on deck?: These teams have a history of high-scoring affairs, and this one looks to be no different. The Grizzlies rank second in points scored per game, while the Kings are 10th. Both teams are also Top 10 in field goal percentage and offensive efficiency.
