New Orleans Pelicans vs Memphis Grizzlies Prediction | 01.23.26

New Orleans Pelicans vs Memphis Grizzlies Prediction, Odds & NBA Picks | 23-01-2026

Get ready for a compelling regular-season matchup as the New Orleans Pelicans (10-36) travel to FedExForum to face the Memphis Grizzlies (18-24) on January 23, 2026, at 8:00 PM EST. This clash pits two teams battling through significant challenges, with the Grizzlies aiming to consolidate their position against a struggling Pelicans squad.

New Orleans Pelicans vs Memphis Grizzlies Matchup Preview

New Orleans Pelicans Key Stats & Trends

The New Orleans Pelicans have endured a tough season, reflected in their 10-36 record. Despite the team’s struggles, Trey Murphy III has been a consistent offensive force, leading the team with an impressive 22.0 points per game. His all-around impact is undeniable, averaging 22.0 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.5 SPG, and 0.3 BPG. Rookie Derik Queen has shown promising versatility, topping the team in rebounds with 7.4 per game and assists with 4.4 per game, indicating his potential as a future cornerstone. However, New Orleans’ inability to translate individual brilliance into team wins highlights underlying issues, particularly on the defensive end and in consistent offensive execution.

Injury Report New Orleans Pelicans

• Herbert Jones (Out): Jones (ankle) is questionable for Friday’s game against the Grizzlies, a significant potential blow to their defense.
• Jose Alvarado (Out): Alvarado (oblique) is expected to miss about two more weeks, impacting backcourt depth and energy.
• Dejounte Murray (Out): Pelicans head coach James Borrego reports Murray (Achilles) is “making a lot of progress” but doesn’t appear close to his season debut. Clarity on his return is expected in about a month.

Memphis Grizzlies Key Stats & Trends

The Memphis Grizzlies, despite a challenging 18-24 record, have shown more resilience. Their defensive identity is often anchored by Jaren Jackson Jr., who leads the team in scoring with 18.7 points per game and provides crucial rim protection. Jackson Jr. also contributes 5.5 RPG, 1.9 APG, 0.9 SPG, and 1.5 BPG. Forward Cedric Coward has been a strong presence on the boards, averaging 6.5 rebounds per game, while Cam Spencer orchestrates the offense with 5.4 assists per game. The Grizzlies’ ability to grind out wins despite a lengthy injury list speaks to their depth and coaching.

Injury Report Memphis Grizzlies

• Ty Jerome (Out): Jerome (calf) has been ruled out for Friday’s game against the Pelicans.
• Ja Morant (Out): Morant has been ruled out for Friday’s game against the Pelicans due to a left elbow sprain, a major loss for their offensive dynamism.
• Santi Aldama (Out): Aldama (knee) has been ruled out for Friday’s game versus the Pelicans.
• Scotty Pippen Jr. (Out): Pippen is progressing well from left toe surgery and is expected to return in 4-6 weeks.
• Zach Edey (Out): Edey continues to recover from a stress reaction in his left ankle and will be 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.

New Orleans Pelicans vs Memphis Grizzlies Prediction & Best Bet

Despite an extensive injury list, the Memphis Grizzlies possess enough talent and defensive grit to overcome the struggling Pelicans. The absence of Ja Morant is significant, but Jaren Jackson Jr.‘s two-way impact, combined with the Pelicans’ own substantial injuries and poor road record, tips the scales. The Pelicans, even with Trey Murphy III’s scoring prowess, have consistently failed to close out games.

We predict the winner will be the Memphis Grizzlies.

Regarding the total points line of 235.5, we anticipate an up-tempo game. Both teams are dealing with key defensive absences or limitations (Jones for Pelicans, depth for Grizzlies). Trey Murphy III and Jordan Poole can ignite the Pelicans’ offense, while Jaren Jackson Jr. and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope will lead the Grizzlies’ attack. With the Pelicans’ defensive struggles and the Grizzlies potentially pushing the pace at home, we project this game to go over the 235.5 total.