New Orleans Pelicans at Memphis Grizzlies Picks and Predictions for Wednesday, October 22, 2025
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The New Orleans Pelicans, who finished 21–61 last season, travel to face the Memphis Grizzlies, who went 48–34 and reached the first round of the playoffs, in both teams’ 2025–26 season opener at FedExForum in Memphis. The opening tip-off is at 8:00 p.m. ET on GCSEN. New Orleans looks to rebound from an injury-plagued season, while Memphis aims to build on last year’s playoff run with plenty of new faces on the roster. Build your bankroll with our NBA free picks.
New Orleans Pelicans Preview
After a rough season defined by injuries, the Pelicans enter with optimism. Zion Williamson returns healthy and remains the focal point of the offense. New additions Jordan Poole and Saddiq Bey bring perimeter scoring, while veteran Kevon Looney adds toughness in the paint and experience in the frontcourt, once healthy. The team also drafted Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen, two rookies who could contribute from the start, while Dejounte Murray continues his Achilles recovery.
Coach Willie Green will rely on Trey Murphy III, who averaged more than 21 points per game before his shoulder injury last March. Murphy’s shooting and length give New Orleans a true two-way threat alongside Williamson. The Pelicans ranked near the bottom of the league in both offense and defense last season, but with an improved roster and fewer injuries, they should be more competitive from tipoff to the final horn.
Memphis Grizzlies Preview
Memphis opens the season with confidence after a 48–34 record and a first-round appearance. Ja Morant leads the charge once again after averaging 23.2 points per game, and Jaren Jackson Jr. continues to grow as a scoring and defensive catalyst. Jackson shot a career-best 37.5% from three last season and signed a long-term extension, solidifying his place as one of the franchise’s cornerstones next to Morant.
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The Grizzlies added Kentavious Caldwell-Pope for defense and shooting and brought in Ty Jerome to provide depth at guard. Rookie Cedric Coward could emerge as a strong seventh or eighth man, while the departure of Desmond Bane leaves an opening for others to step up their scoring. Under new coach Tuomas Iisalo, Memphis might slow the pace slightly after leading the league in possessions per game last year, focusing more on a half-court game.
New Orleans Pelicans vs. Memphis Grizzlies Prediction
New Orleans should stay close early behind Williamson’s inside scoring, but Memphis’ depth and pace at home give them the upper hand. Expect Morant to control the tempo and Jackson to create mismatches as the Grizzlies pull away late. Final Score Prediction: Memphis Grizzlies win and cover ATS 120-109.
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