The Grizzlies’ unbeaten road mark meets a Pelicans team allowing 124.3 points per game.
Memphis brings a 7-4 record and No. 14 power-index rank to New Orleans on Friday at 8 p.m. ET, where the Pelicans enter at 4-8 and No. 23. The Grizzlies are 5-0 on the road, while New Orleans is 3-4 at home, putting pressure on the Pelicans to defend their floor against the stronger early-season team. Zion Williamson’s 239 points and 67 made free throws in 11 games give Memphis a major interior challenge, particularly with Zach Edey and Quinten Post out. Memphis scores 117.9 points per game and allows 111.9; New Orleans scores 116.9 but gives up 124.3, making defensive stops the home team’s clearest need. If the Pelicans can turn Zion’s pressure into efficient offense and take advantage of Memphis’ depleted center rotation, they can test the Grizzlies’ perfect road record.