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Memphis Grizzlies vs Detroit Pistons Picks and Predictions – November 3rd, 2025
Ja Morant returns from suspension just in time for the Memphis Grizzlies, who look to halt a two-game skid against a Detroit Pistons team gaining early-season momentum. Memphis has stumbled defensively and emotionally, while Detroit has found a rhythm behind the frontcourt dominance of Jalen Duren and elite playmaking from Cade Cunningham. This matchup brings contrasting trajectories — Memphis trying to stabilize, Detroit trying to keep rising.
Line Movement and Odds
The Pistons open as -3.5 road favorites, with the Grizzlies at +3.5. Total sits at 236.5. Early money leans Detroit due to their rebounding edge and Memphis’ internal issues, but Morant’s return introduces volatility into the spread. The total reflects two teams capable of high-paced offensive stretches, but Memphis’ inconsistency adds risk.
Matchup Breakdown
Grizzlies Outlook
The Memphis Grizzlies return home after back-to-back losses and a one-game suspension for Ja Morant following a postgame incident. Without him, Memphis fell 117-104 in Toronto, lacking primary ball handling and pace. Morant has struggled efficiency-wise (15.6% from three), but his return stabilizes their offense and takes pressure off Jaren Jackson Jr., who posted 20 points and nine rebounds against Toronto. Bench spark Vince Williams Jr. also returned from injury with 14 points in 21 minutes, offering needed depth.
Pistons Outlook
The Detroit Pistons have won two straight and are thriving behind the breakout of Jalen Duren, who just put up 33 points on 13-of-16 shooting and 10 rebounds vs. Dallas. Cade Cunningham is in full command — 21 points, 18 assists, just one turnover — becoming the first Piston since Isiah Thomas with a 20/18/3 line. Detroit ranks top five in rebounding and top 10 in pace, and their defense is holding teams to 43.4% shooting — fourth-best in the NBA. Their physicality inside and point-of-attack passing give them structural advantages.
Key Matchup / Path to Victory
Interior dominance vs shot creation. Detroit controls the paint with Duren and offensive boards, while Memphis needs Morant’s dribble penetration to counter. If Morant’s return reactivates Memphis’ pace-and-space system, this becomes competitive. If Detroit wins the glass and pressures Morant into early turnovers, they control the tempo and cover.
Injuries / Availability
Ja Morant is available after a team-issued one-game suspension. Memphis remains without backup guards Scotty Pippen Jr. and Ty Jerome, reducing ball-handling depth behind Morant. Pistons enter mostly healthy, with their core rotation intact and no new reported injuries. Check the official Grizzlies injury report and Pistons injury report for updates before tip-off.
Environment / Game Conditions
FedExForum favors Memphis’ aggressive, transition-driven style, especially with Morant back. Detroit plays faster than past seasons but prefers controlled half-court execution through Cunningham and Duren. If the Grizzlies force pace, it benefits their offense but risks turnovers against Detroit’s disciplined defense.
Best Bets and Prediction
• Spread: Pistons -3.5
• Total: Under 236.5
Projected Final Score: Pistons 118, Grizzlies 112.
Morant’s return boosts Memphis, but Detroit’s interior dominance and defensive discipline give them a more stable floor. The Pistons are rebounding at an elite rate and limiting efficient looks. Expect Memphis to compete early, but Detroit’s structure outlasts them. The total stays under if Detroit controls pace and limits Memphis to one-shot possessions.
Handicappers and Service Plays
Games like this — star return, emotional swing, short spread — are ideal for leaning on data-backed expert opinions. Platforms like the Best Handicappers page offer verified records, while the leaderboard shows who’s winning right now. If you’re confident but want alternate lines or premium angles, visit the buy picks section for deeper exposure.


