Memphis Grizzlies vs Los Angeles Lakers: odds and predictions: Who is the favorite?

The NBA playoffs get going with the number two seed Memphis Grizzlies drawing the number seven seed Los Angeles Lakers.

Los Angeles Lakers

Only a few short months ago, this would have been the most unlikely matchup imaginable, as the Lakers struggled and wallowed in the shallows and miseries of the bottom end of the Western Conference.

But what a turnaround they have had. Some savvy moves at the trade deadline led to a resuscitation of their offense, with Anthony Davis and LeBron James linking up to put points on the board, finally.

Memphis Grizzlies

Ja Morant and the Grizzlies have been almost the polar opposite of the Lakers this season, with solid, dependable play carrying them from first game to the playoffs.

And while it is true that they are not an eye-catching offense, they are certainly able to handle themselves under pressure. They thrive on the fast break and will make the most of those opportunities without fail.

Memphis Grizzlies vs Los Angeles Lakers odds

Memphis Grizzlies vs Los Angeles Lakers predictions

While this promises to be a close run thing, likely needing seven games to decide the winner, the flaws in the Lakers are going to be their undoing.  Memphis is a team who will capitalize on turnovers and Los Angeles has a real problem with holding onto the ball.

LeBron is a legend and will be able to carry the team for quite a way. Anthony Davis will have a steamer of a series and those two alone will account for three Lakers wins. But the three-point ability of the Grizzlies can nullify these gains and the stinger in the tail for the game is the Lakers defense; or lack of one.

Los Angeles allows 117.6 points per game, which is like pollen to a bee for Memphis. A fast-break offense against a bendy defense will put up points, and points in quantities that neither James nor AD can come back from.

Our pick: Memphis in seven games.