Unexpected snow delays grant Memphis a much-needed break. Can Houston overcome a surprisingly resilient Grizzlies squad, even without their star? Will this game even be played tonight?
The Grizzlies were expected to visit Houston on the tail end of a back to back, but the brutal winter storms postponed their Sunday matinee game against Denver. I’m sure the depleted Memphis roster didn’t mind getting that unexpected rest.
Ja Morant is set to miss the next 3 weeks due to an elbow injury, per ESPN. Five other key rotational players were also ruled out for Sunday’s game, which has been a consistent trend for the team.
So much so, that they’ve actually become a better team without their superstar guard on the court. Through their 43 games, the Grizzlies are only 7-13 in the 20 games Morant has suited up for. They’re nearly .500 without him, with an 11-12 record.
That being said, Houston can’t underestimate this game. The NBA's Expanded Standings show their record against sub .500 teams has dropped to 11-7, per ESPN. Interestingly, the lottery bound Grizzlies have performed better in those games, having a 13-5 record against losing teams.
This is an underrated part of the season to focus on, as Tankathon shows Houston to have the 10th weakest/easiest schedule remaining. A lot of home games, and a lot of lower level opponents.
A great opportunity for this team to lock in and pile up wins to secure the home-court advantage in the playoffs. As long as Memphis is able to fly in with no issues, the Rockets hope to get another outcome similar to their last matchup, covered on Roundtable.