The Grizzlies must contain LaMelo Ball's playmaking abilities and limit his impact in transition.
Brandon Miller's explosive athleticism and 3-point shooting pose a significant threat.
The Hornets have an athletic team on a three-game win streak, making them dangerous on the road.
Memphis needs high-level ball movement to offset Charlotte's strong defense.
Cam Spencer and Vince Williams Jr. need to create opportunities for their teammates.
The Grizzlies' outside shooting needs to improve for offensive success.
The Hornets have won four of their last five games, with three of those wins coming against teams over .500.
Why this matters: The Grizzlies are currently three games outside of Play-In Tournament seeding. This game against the Hornets is a critical opportunity to gain ground and improve their playoff chances. Failure to contain Charlotte's key players and improve their offensive execution could further jeopardize their postseason aspirations.
The Memphis Grizzlies (18-26) host the Charlotte Hornets (19-28) on January 28, 2026, at FedExForum. This game marks the first meeting between the two teams this season. Both teams have faced injury challenges, but the Hornets have found success recently, winning four of their last five games, including three against teams with winning records.
Key Matchups:
Brandon Miller vs. Grizzlies Defense: Miller's ability to drive to the basket and shoot the 3-pointer makes him a difficult matchup. The Grizzlies must limit his open looks and force him into contested shots.
LaMelo Ball vs. Grizzlies Guards: Ball's playmaking and transition skills are crucial to the Hornets' offense. Memphis needs to disrupt his passing lanes and prevent easy baskets in transition.
Grizzlies' Offense vs. Hornets' Defense: Memphis needs to generate high-level ball movement and create open shots to break down Charlotte's defense, which has been ranked fifth in the league over their last 10 games. Cam Spencer and Vince Williams Jr. must step up to create for their teammates in Ja Morant's absence.
How to Watch:
The game will be broadcast on FanDuel Sports Network and can be streamed via the FanDuel Sports App.
Injury Report:
Hornets: Mason Plumlee (Out, Groin), KJ Simpson (Day-To-Day, Hip)
Grizzlies: Zach Edey (Out, Ankle), Brandon Clarke (Out, Calf), Ja Morant (Out, Elbow), Ty Jerome (Out, Calf), Scotty Pippen Jr. (Out, Toe)
Odds:
Charlotte is favored by 2.5 points, with a total of 230.5. (Odds provided by BetMGM&ref=yanuki.com)
Q: What time does the game start?
7 p.m. CT
Q: Where is the game being played?
FedExForum in Memphis
Q: What channel is the game on?
FanDuel Sports Network
The Grizzlies need to improve their perimeter defense to contain the Hornets' shooters.
Memphis must generate high-quality offensive looks through ball movement and player movement.
Containing LaMelo Ball in transition is critical to slowing down the Hornets' offense.
Improved outside shooting is essential for the Grizzlies to stretch the floor and create driving lanes.
Cam Spencer and Vince Williams Jr. need to step up and contribute.
Key actions readers can take:
Tune in to the game on FanDuel Sports Network.
Follow live updates on The Commercial Appeal.
Check back for post-game analysis and highlights.
Do you think the Grizzlies can turn their season around and make the playoffs? Let us know in the comments!
Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
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