Utah Jazz vs Memphis Grizzlies Picks and Predictions for Friday December 12 2025
Game Information
The Utah Jazz (8–15, 2–8 away) travel to FedExForum to take on the Memphis Grizzlies (11–13, 6–6 home) at 8:00 PM ET. Utah enters on a two-game losing streak while Memphis has quietly gained momentum, winning two straight and seven of their past ten. Before betting this matchup or the rest of Friday’s slate, check out the latest breakdowns and expert selections on our free NBA Picks page.
Team Overview: Utah Jazz
Utah continues to struggle defensively, giving up 125.8 points per game—one of the highest marks in the NBA. Offensively, however, the Jazz remain competitive with 117.6 PPG behind Lauri Markkanen’s strong 27.6-point scoring average. When Markkanen is active, Utah’s spacing and ball movement significantly improve, and their assist numbers show it at nearly 29.5 per game. The problem has been consistency on both ends, as losses to New York and Oklahoma City highlighted their defensive breakdowns, transition issues, and inability to contain perimeter scorers. On the road, Utah has been especially vulnerable, sitting at just 2–8.
Team Overview: Memphis Grizzlies
Memphis enters this matchup trending upward. The Grizzlies have won seven of their last ten games and have rediscovered their defensive identity, holding opponents to 115.3 PPG—far stronger than earlier in the season. Offensively, they average 113.6 PPG behind Jaren Jackson Jr.’s 17.0 PPG and improved ball movement. The big story is the possible return of Ja Morant, who is listed as a game-time decision. His presence elevates Memphis’ transition offense and ballistic scoring ability. Even without Morant, Memphis has looked sharper, more disciplined, and far more consistent over their last few games, including solid wins over Portland and the Clippers.
Key Players to Watch
Lauri Markkanen (UTA): Utah’s leading scorer at 27.6 PPG, Markkanen’s availability is crucial. If active, he gives Utah legitimate floor spacing, high-efficiency shooting, and mismatch potential. Jaren Jackson Jr. (MEM): One of the league’s best two-way forwards, Jackson’s rim protection and improved scoring make him a central figure in Memphis’ recent success. Ja Morant (MEM): If he suits up, the Grizzlies immediately gain pace, rim pressure, and a 25+ point scoring threat.
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Injury Report
Utah lists Lauri Markkanen and Georges Niang as questionable, while Walker Kessler remains out long-term. The potential absence of Markkanen would dramatically weaken the Jazz’s offensive structure. Memphis may have Ja Morant and Javon Small available as game-time decisions, while Ty Jerome, Brandon Clarke, and Scotty Pippen Jr. remain out.
Matchup Breakdown
Memphis has clear defensive and momentum advantages. Utah’s defense is struggling to contain pick-and-roll actions and transition attacks—two areas Memphis thrives in. If Morant returns, the gap widens even further. Utah’s only path to competitiveness is a high-efficiency shooting night from Markkanen and strong bench scoring, but defensive lapses have routinely buried them early in games. Memphis’ improved defensive rotations and rebounding should allow them to control tempo and wear down Utah across four quarters.
Betting Outlook
Memphis opened as a 6.5-point home favorite, a fair line considering Utah’s road struggles and the Grizzlies’ upward trajectory. The total at 234.5 reflects two high-tempo offenses and weak defenses, though Memphis’ recent defensive improvement suggests the under could remain in play if Morant sits. Check out all the sportsbook promos to see if you are getting a great deal on your bets on the Jazz. Make sure you know about how the fans are looking on prediction markets for the Grizzlies with the Kickr promo code. Make sure when you place your bet on Jazz vs Grizzlies you are using the BetMGM bonus code.
Final Score Prediction
Memphis Grizzlies 121, Utah Jazz 112
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