Opinion
3 min read

Clash at FedExForum: Memphis Grizzlies Set to Host Sacramento Kings

As the Memphis Grizzlies prepare to host the Sacramento Kings at FedExForum, fans are eagerly anticipating what promises to be an electrifying matchup. The Grizzlies, coming off a thrilling victory against the Atlanta Hawks on December 24th with a score of 125-119, are looking to maintain their momentum.


SACRAMENTO, CA - JANUARY 23:  Kevin Huerter #9 of the Sacramento Kings shoots the ball during the game against the  Memphis Grizzlies  on January 23, 2023 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images)

In that game, the Grizzlies showcased their offensive prowess by scoring 40 points in the third quarter and leading for nearly 15 minutes of playtime. Their efficiency was on full display with a field goal percentage of 52 percent and an impressive performance beyond the arc, hitting 33 percent of their three-point attempts. The team's ability to draw fouls and capitalize on free throws was also notable despite shooting only 64 percent from the line.


The bench contributed a solid 25 points, but it was their dominance in paint that truly made a difference; they scored an astounding 76 points inside while maintaining control over rebounds with a total count of 62. This inside presence could be crucial against Sacramento.


SACRAMENTO, CA - JANUARY 23:  Kevin Huerter #9 of the Sacramento Kings shoots the ball during the game against the  Memphis Grizzlies  on January 23, 2023 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images)

However, it wasn't just offense where Memphis shined; defensively they managed seven blocks and six steals which translated into important turnovers and fast break opportunities. They'll need this same defensive intensity against a Kings team known for its quick transitions and sharpshooting abilities.


The previous home game for MEM on December 22nd against Indiana Pacers ended in another win (116-103), further demonstrating their capability when playing under home court advantage at FedExForum. The Grizzlies led for over three-quarters of that game thanks largely to their bench scoring an impressive 40 points and maintaining strong defensive pressure throughout all four quarters.


SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 23:  Domantas Sabonis #10 of the Sacramento Kings dunks the ball on Xavier Tillman #2 and Jaren Jackson Jr. #13 of the Memphis Grizzlies in the second half at Golden 1 Center on January 23, 2023 in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

Despite these recent successes, it's important not to overlook some areas needing improvement as they head into this upcoming contest. Turnovers have been an issue; in both victories mentioned above, double-digit turnovers were recorded which could prove costly if not addressed before facing SAC.


Looking ahead at what's expected from this encounter with Sacramento Kings – fans should watch closely how Memphis manages ball possession and if they can continue exploiting their strength inside while keeping up defensive efforts around perimeter defense against SAC’s shooters.


The scheduled tip-off is set for January 29th at FedExForum in Memphis at local time (7:00 PM CST). Fans can catch all action live on BSSE or NBCS-CA depending on location preferences.

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