Kings vs Grizzlies Free Pick, NBA Free Pick & Predictions 2/23/26

J.A. Cavalier
6 hours ago
2 min read

NBA ODDS, NBA PREDICTIONS, NBA PREVIEWS

Kings vs Grizzlies Free Pick

The Sacramento Kings (12-46) head to the FedExForum tonight to take on the Memphis Grizzlies (21-34) in a matchup shaped heavily by injuries and momentum—or lack thereof.

Both teams enter shorthanded, but the trajectories could not be more different. Sacramento is mired in a 16-game losing streak, a stretch that has exposed both depth limitations and defensive inconsistencies. The Kings have struggled to maintain structure on either end of the floor, and extended absences of key contributors have forced inexperienced lineups into high-leverage roles.

Memphis, while also navigating significant roster gaps, has shown more competitive resilience in recent outings. The Grizzlies have played with improved pace control and defensive intensity, keeping games within reach despite limited star power. Their ability to generate balanced scoring and win the effort areas—particularly rebounding and transition defense—has been the key differentiator.

From a betting standpoint, this matchup centers on stability and morale. Sacramento’s prolonged skid raises legitimate concerns about late-game execution and defensive commitment, particularly on the road. Memphis, meanwhile, appears to have embraced a next-man-up mentality that has translated into more disciplined performances.

In a contest between two depleted rosters, the edge often goes to the team showing greater cohesion and competitive energy—factors that currently favor the home side.

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Let’s talk Kings–Grizzlies total, because on the surface you see Memphis ranked 10th in pace at 101.62 and you think, ‘Okay, we’re running.’ But pace without finishers is just cardio with a scoreboard. Sacramento has failed to reach 100 points in three of their last four games, and here’s the killer stat — their second-half effective field goal percentage is a league-worst 50%. That’s not bad luck. That’s an offense that completely stalls when the game tightens up. Now flip to Memphis — they’re missing their primary interior pressure. No Edey, no Clarke, no Morant downhill collapsing the defense. So what happens? More perimeter volume. Yes, they’re 11th in three-point attempts, but the efficiency is middle-of-the-pack. Volume without elite accuracy is volatility, not reliability. Two of the last three head-to-head meetings have gone Under, and now you’ve got both teams missing their offensive anchors. Public sees pace. Sharps see shot quality and second-half collapse rates.