The Toronto Raptors host the Memphis Grizzlies in a game that could have major implications when it comes to a top 6 draft pick.
If the Raptors lose, Memphis will jump them in the standings.
If the Raptors win, they will further separate themselves from a chance at a top 6 pick.
The Raptors 2024 first-round pick belongs to the San Antonio Spurs via the Jakob Poeltl trade but it is Top-6 protected. This means if the pick falls within the top 6, the Raptors keep it.
The last time the Raptors played the Grizzlies, they beat them 116-111 on Jan. 3. Ja Morant was healthy in that one for the Grizzlies. This time around Memphis won’t have Morant as he is out for the season with a torn labrum.
The Grizzlies have an offense that ranks 29th in the league, but they do rank ninth in defence. Meanwhile, the Raptors have built an offence that ranks 16th and a defense that ranks 16th.
The last time the Raptors played the Grizzlies they had RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley in the lineup. Quickley led the Raptors in scoring with 26 points.
Both players will look to have big games in this one. Scottie Barnes will look to bounce back from his tough outing in New York. The third year player only scored 9 points on 4-14 shooting.
The Grizzlies enter this matchup with a long injury list. Morant is out for the season along with Steven Adams. Desmond Bane remains out with an ankle sprain and Marcus Smart remains out with a finger injury. The Grizzlies will also be without Brandon Clarke, Jake LaRavia, Derrick Rose and potentially Xavier Tillman who has been listed as questionable.
Jakob Poeltl is the lone injury for the Raptors. He remains out with a left ankle sprain.
Memphis Grizzlies (15-27) vs. Toronto Raptors (16-27)
7:30 p.m. ET, Monday, January 22, 2024
Scotiabank Arena, Toronto, Ontario
TV: TSN
Projected Grizzlies Starting Lineup:
PG: John Konchar
SG: Luke Kenard
SF: Vince Williams Jr.
PF: Santi Aldama
C: Jaren Jackson Jr.
Key Reserves: David Roddy, Zaire Williams, GG Jackson II
Projected Raptors Starting Lineup:
PG: Immanuel Quickley
SG: Gary Trent Jr.
SF: RJ Barrett
PF: Scottie Barnes
C: Jontay Porter
Key Reserves: Dennis Schroder, Bruce Brown, Chris Boucher
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