Grizzlies vs. Blazers: Start Time, TV Schedule, Game Preview

WHO
Memphis Grizzlies (27-20, 11-11 Away) vs. Portland Trail Blazers (20-27, 12-9 Home)

WHEN
9:00 p.m. Central

WHERE
Moda Center at the Rose Garden, Portland, Oregon

WATCH/LISTEN
Fox Sports Southeast / 92.9 FM ESPN Memphis

What to Watch For

Personnel Rotations.

Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports

Remember that time Big Spain dropped his first career 40-piece and the Grizzlies beat both the Raptors AND the officials in a late-game thriller? Yeah, it was exhausting. Also, Vince Carter is officially 40 and (whispers) I don’t actually think he’s immortal. So, as the Grizzlies kick off their biggest road trip of the year, let’s keep a keen eye on minute restrictions and Fizdale’s lineup variations.

C.J. McCollum.

Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports

This dude loves playing the Grizzlies. He matched his career high with 37 points in the first matchup, and led Portland with 24 in the second. In the latter, Gasol outgunned him with 36 of his own, though the game itself was a high-80’s sludgefest. This matchup is usually won on the defensive end, which brings us to...

Pick-and-Roll Defense.

Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports

It’s a perennial pain point for the Grizzlies, and the Blazers are extremely good at it. Here’s a lengthy breakdown on how Lillard and McCollum have honed it to perfection.

Prediction

Grizzlies lose one they should win, 100-93.

Follow @sbngrizzlies