The Memphis Grizzlies visit the New York Knicks on Monday in the interconference foes' first of two showdowns this season.
Memphis (31-15) will attempt to extend its league-best six-game winning streak. Five of its six wins during its streak have come by double-digit points, including Saturday's 125-103 blowout home win over the Utah Jazz.
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Likewise, New York (30-16) seeks its fourth consecutive win after routing the Sacramento Kings 143-120 during Saturday's home clash.
The Grizzlies and Knicks' matchup should feature a battle of star point guards, with Ja Morant taking on Jalen Brunson. Meanwhile, Memphis rookie big man Zach Edey is projected to have his hands full against New York star center Karl-Anthony Towns.
The Grizzlies have been one of the NBA's most well-rounded teams, ranking fifth in offensive rating (117.9) and sixth in defensive rating (110.0). Conversely, the Knicks have dominated offensively, ranking second in offensive rating (119.3), with a middle-of-the-pack 15th-placed defensive rating (113.0).
Memphis has had its fair share of injuries this season. However, it is forecasted to be relatively close to full strength on Monday, setting the stage for an entertaining game.
Memphis Grizzlies Injury Report: Marcus Smart out, Santi Aldama questionable against Knicks
Entering Monday, all of Memphis' starters are expected to suit up, including Edey and Morant, who returned from an illness on Saturday.
However, veteran guard Marcus Smart has been ruled out. The defensive-minded player last played on Dec. 21 due to a "partial tear of the proximal extensor hood of his right index finger." Joining Smart on the sideline is wing Vince Williams Jr. (ankle) and guard Cam Spencer (thumb).
Meanwhile, forwards Santi Aldama (illness) and Jake LaRavia (back) are listed as questionable, potentially leaving the Grizzlies short on frontcourt depth. Aldama, an NBA Sixth Man of the Year candidate, has missed the last two contests. So, his potential return would mark a boon for Memphis' second-ranked bench-scoring unit (46.2 points per game).
How to watch Memphis Grizzlies vs New York Knicks?
Memphis and New York's showdown is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET on Monday at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York.
MSG and FDSSE will broadcast the game locally, while viewers outside those regions can stream the contest on NBA League Pass and Fubo.
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