Memphis Grizzlies vs New Orleans Pelicans Prediction | 01.30.26

Memphis Grizzlies vs New Orleans Pelicans Prediction, Odds & NBA Picks | 30-01-2026

As the NBA regular season progresses, an intriguing matchup looms on January 30, 2026, at 7:30 PM in the Smoothie King Center, New Orleans. The struggling Memphis Grizzlies (18-27) face off against the New Orleans Pelicans (12-37) in a contest where both teams are desperate to turn their seasons around. This game presents a significant opportunity for the Pelicans to leverage their home-court advantage against a severely depleted Grizzlies roster.

Memphis Grizzlies vs New Orleans Pelicans Matchup Preview

Memphis Grizzlies Key Stats & Trends

The Memphis Grizzlies have endured a challenging season, reflected in their 18-27 record. Their offensive production has largely fallen on the shoulders of Jaren Jackson Jr., who leads the team with an impressive 19.0 PPG. Jackson Jr.’s all-around impact is evident in his rating of 19.0 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 1.9 APG, 1.0 SPG, and 1.5 BPG, showcasing his two-way prowess. Jock Landale has been a consistent presence on the glass, averaging 6.4 RPG, while Cam Spencer orchestrates the offense with 5.7 APG. However, Memphis’ primary struggle stems from a lack of consistent scoring depth and cohesion, exacerbated by a catastrophic injury list that has derailed any momentum they might build.

Injury Report Memphis Grizzlies

• Ty Jerome (Out): Jerome (calf) is doubtful for Friday’s game against New Orleans.
• Santi Aldama (Out): Aldama (knee) is out for Friday’s game against the Pelicans.
• Scotty Pippen Jr. (Out): The Grizzlies recalled Pippen (toe) from the G League’s Memphis Hustle on Wednesday.
• Ja Morant (Out): Morant (elbow) will be reevaluated in approximately three weeks, the Grizzlies announced Saturday.
• Zach Edey (Out): The Grizzlies announced Wednesday that Edey continues to recover from a stress reaction in his left ankle and will maintain his current plan of offloading and rehabilitation before being re-evaluated in six weeks.
• Brandon Clarke (Out): Clarke is progressing well from his Grade 2 right calf strain and is expected to return in four to six weeks, the Grizzlies announced Wednesday.

New Orleans Pelicans Key Stats & Trends

The New Orleans Pelicans, despite a worse 12-37 record, possess a dynamic offensive talent in Zion Williamson, who leads the team with 22.0 PPG. His explosive scoring is critical to their success. Rookie Derik Queen has made an immediate impact, pulling down 7.4 RPG and surprisingly contributing 4.3 APG, showcasing his versatility. Trey Murphy III provides significant all-around production, with a rating of 21.9 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 3.7 APG, 1.6 SPG, and 0.3 BPG, making him a crucial two-way player for New Orleans. While the Pelicans have struggled to string wins together, their core talent, particularly at home, offers a pathway to victory against shorthanded opponents.

Injury Report New Orleans Pelicans

• Dejounte Murray (Out): Pelicans head coach James Borrego said Sunday that Murray (Achilles) is “making a lot of progress” but doesn’t appear to be close to making his season debut, Rod Walker of The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports. “We hope to get him back in our building here soon. He’s doing a lot of work getting ready to get back here,” Borrego said of Murray. “I say in the next month we’ll have a little bit more clarity on where he’s at. But he’s made a lot of progress. Significant progress.”

Memphis Grizzlies vs New Orleans Pelicans Prediction & Best Bet

Considering the extensive injury list plaguing the Memphis Grizzlies, their ability to compete at a high level is severely compromised. Missing key players like Ja Morant, Zach Edey, Santi Aldama, and Brandon Clarke leaves Jaren Jackson Jr. isolated without sufficient support. While the Pelicans have their own struggles and are without Dejounte Murray, the presence of Zion Williamson, Trey Murphy III, and Derik Queen provides a significant talent advantage against a depleted Memphis squad, especially playing at home. Therefore, the definitive prediction for this matchup is New Orleans Pelicans -3.5 (Spread).

Regarding the total points line set at 234.5, the Grizzlies’ offensive output is expected to be suppressed due to their numerous absences. While Zion can score, the Pelicans’ overall team offense can be inconsistent. Given Memphis’ defensive identity, even without key personnel, and their likely slower pace without primary playmakers, an under-the-total outcome is highly probable. Our pick for the total points is under 234.5.