Knicks vs. Grizzlies: A Must-Win for New York?
The Memphis Grizzlies (25-50) welcome the New York Knicks (48-27) to FedExForum on Wednesday, April 1st, for the second and final meeting of the season. While the Grizzlies are already eliminated from playoff contention, the Knicks arrive in Memphis looking to regain their form and solidify their position in the Eastern Conference standings. This game carries significant weight for New York, with Josh Hart boldly declaring it a “must-win” for the team.
Knicks Facing a Critical Stretch
New York enters this contest reeling from three consecutive losses, including a disappointing 111-94 defeat in Houston. Despite a strong March record of 10-6, highlighted by a seven-game winning streak, the Knicks have stumbled at a crucial juncture. They currently hold a one-game lead for the No. 3 seed in the East, thanks to a favour from the Lakers who defeated Cleveland, but are within striking distance of the Boston Celtics for the No. 2 spot (trailing by 2.5 games). A win in Memphis is vital to maintain momentum and secure a favourable playoff seeding.
The Knicks’ chances are further complicated by injury concerns. Star point guard Jalen Brunson is listed as questionable with right ankle soreness, and backup center Mitchell Robinson is already ruled out. Miles McBride is also sidelined due to a pelvic core muscle injury.
Grizzlies Struggling at Home
The Grizzlies, meanwhile, are navigating a challenging season marked by injuries and roster changes. They’ve been swept in the past two seasons by the Knicks and haven’t defeated New York at FedEx Forum since October 19, 2022. Coming off a 131-105 loss to the Phoenix Suns, where Devin Booker scored 36 points, Memphis is looking to close out their five-game homestand on a positive note. However, they’ve struggled at home, going 2-7 in their last nine games and 13-24 overall.
Despite their struggles, the Grizzlies have shown flashes of potential, exemplified by rookie Cedric Coward’s impressive performance against the Chicago Bulls, where he recorded 24 points and nine rebounds. Currently 11th in the West and third in the Southwest Division, the Grizzlies are focused on developing young talent and building for the future.
Game Details
- Date: Wednesday, April 1st
- Time: 7:10 p.m. CST
- Location: FedExForum, Memphis, Tennessee
- TV: FanDuel Sports Network Southeast (Grizzlies), MSG TV (Knicks)
- Radio: WMFS-FM (Grizzlies), WEPN-FM (Knicks)
Betting Lines (via DraftKings)
- Spread: Knicks -14.5 (-115), Grizzlies +14.5 (-105)
- Moneyline: Knicks -950, Grizzlies +625
- Total: 226.5 (Over -105, Under -115)
Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Projected Starters
Knicks
- F OG Anunoby
- F Josh Hart
- C Karl-Anthony Towns
- G Jalen Brunson
- G Mikal Bridges
Grizzlies
- F/G Rayan Rupert
- F GG Jackson
- C O-Max Prosper
- G Javon Small
- G Cedric Coward
Injury Report
Knicks
- Jalen Brunson: Questionable – Right Ankle Soreness
- Mitchell Robinson: Out – Left Ankle Injury Management
- Miles McBride: Out – Pelvic Core Muscle Injury Management
Grizzlies
- Jahmai Mashack: Available – Nasal Fracture (Face Mask)
- Taylor Hendricks: Doubtful – Left Fifth Finger Soreness
- Ty Jerome: Out – Left Ankle Sprain
- Jaylen Wells: Out – Right Great Toe Injury Management
- Ja Morant: Out – Left Elbow UCL Strain
- Kentavious Caldwell-Pope: Out – Right 5th Finger Surgery Recovery
- Brandon Clarke: Out – Right Calf Strain
- Zach Edey: Out – Left Ankle Surgery Recovery
- Scotty Pippen Jr.: Out – Great Toe Injury Management
- Santi Aldama: Out – Right Knee Surgery Recovery
- Taj Gibson: Questionable – Right Foot Injury Management
Quote: Knicks forward Josh Hart on the team’s situation: “I just think we’re not going in the right direction. We’re not trending upwards. So, we’ve got to figure it out. It was three tough ones (losses). We’ve got another one tomorrow. That’s a must-win for us, and build from there.”
Source: Sports Illustrated
