Memphis Grizzlies vs New Orleans Pelicans Picks and Predictions October 22nd 2025

New Orleans Pelicans vs Memphis Grizzlies Betting Preview

The New Orleans Pelicans visit the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, for the start of the NBA regular season. Tip-off is scheduled for 8:00 PM ET, with coverage available on FDSS and full odds at ScoresAndStats.com.

Both teams enter the new campaign dealing with early injuries, but they’re also eager to set the tone for their Western Conference rivalry. The Pelicans are banking on a healthy Zion Williamson to lead them forward, while Memphis continues to manage multiple absences but gets Ja Morant back on the floor.

New Orleans Pelicans Outlook

The Pelicans have high hopes after a strong preseason showing despite several injuries. Coach Willie Green will rely on Zion Williamson, who looks rejuvenated and focused after a productive offseason. Williamson’s ability to dominate in the paint and draw fouls remains the foundation of New Orleans’ offense.

Veteran guard Jordan Poole joins the backcourt, bringing shooting and championship experience to complement Trey Murphy III and Brandon Ingram. Murphy’s 18 points and seven rebounds in their recent matchup with Orlando underscored his growing versatility.

The Pelicans’ offense remains among the more efficient in the league, shooting 51.6% from the field against the Magic. Rookies Jeremiah Fears and Yves Missi bring energy and athleticism off the bench, offering valuable depth. The key for New Orleans will be maintaining defensive intensity against a Grizzlies team that thrives on pace.

Memphis Grizzlies Outlook

The Grizzlies are once again battling adversity to start the season, with several key players sidelined, including Zach Edey, Brandon Clarke, and Ty Jerome. Despite that, coach Tuomas Iisalo’s group showed resilience throughout the preseason and remains optimistic.

Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. are both healthy enough to start, which immediately changes Memphis’ outlook. Morant’s explosiveness and playmaking create matchup problems for most defenses, while Jackson anchors the defense with his rim protection.

Second-round pick Javon Small has been a preseason revelation, scoring 34 points with 13 assists across his final two games. His development is one of the silver linings amid the injury crisis. If the young guard can continue his efficient play, the Grizzlies could find a short-term spark.

Memphis’ uptempo style and depth make them dangerous, especially at home, where they typically feed off crowd energy. The Grizzlies’ combination of Morant’s leadership and emerging young contributors keeps them relevant in the NBA Western Conference Odds & Predictions.

Line Movement and Odds

Current odds from ScoresAndStats NBA Picks:

• Grizzlies Moneyline: -184
• Pelicans Moneyline: +155
• Spread: Grizzlies -4.5
• Total: 236.5 (Over/Under)

The Grizzlies open as moderate favorites at home despite their injury list. Bettors appear confident in Morant’s return and Memphis’ home-court advantage.

Matchup Breakdown

Memphis will lean heavily on its stars to overcome its depleted depth. Morant and Jackson’s inside-out synergy will be the centerpiece of their attack. Expect Desmond Bane to shoulder scoring duties from beyond the arc, stretching the Pelicans’ defense.

New Orleans counters with a frontcourt built for physical matchups. Williamson’s power and agility will test Memphis’ interior defense, especially with Edey and Clarke unavailable. If Trey Murphy III and Poole can knock down outside shots, the Pelicans have the firepower to keep pace.

Both teams will push the pace, but turnovers could define the outcome. Memphis thrives in transition, while New Orleans must protect the ball to prevent easy Grizzlies buckets.

Key Edge

Memphis’ home-court advantage and the return of Morant give them the upper hand. The Pelicans’ shooting depth keeps them competitive, but the Grizzlies’ aggressive tempo and defensive versatility make them the safer pick in this matchup.

Betting Trends

• Memphis is 6-1 ATS in its last seven home openers.
• The Grizzlies are 8-2 straight-up in their last 10 meetings with New Orleans.
• New Orleans is 3-7 ATS in its last 10 road games.
• The total has gone under in five of the last seven Pelicans-Grizzlies games.

Explore more early-season insights in the NBA Championship Odds & Predictions to see where these teams stand among Western contenders.

Prediction and Best Bets

Both teams have plenty to prove, but Memphis’ familiarity, star power, and home-court energy should carry them to victory. The Pelicans’ offense can keep it close, yet expect the Grizzlies to execute late behind Morant’s playmaking.

Projected Score: Grizzlies 118, Pelicans 112
Best Bet: Grizzlies -4.5
Secondary Lean: Under 236.5

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