NBA Picks: Memphis at Boston

Do you have money on the Boston Celtics? (AP Images)"]

Although still without Kevin Garnett, Rajon Rondo and a trio of reserves, the Boston Celtics should have a good chance to avoid a third straight loss tonight against the Memphis Grizzlies, who haven't beaten a winning team on the road all season.

The Celtics had won 15 of 17 when Garnett suffered a knee injury at Utah on Feb. 19, but it's been a struggle for the defending champions since then.

Paul Pierce and Ray Allen have been forced to carry the load and Boston's bench was considerably shortened for the team's 107-99 loss at Miami on Wednesday night.

With one win in its last 11 games, Memphis should provide Boston (11-point favorites) with the perfect opportunity to get back on track.

This is the first meeting between the Celtics and Grizzlies since Boston won 119-89 on March 8, 2008, at FedExForum. They'll meet again in Memphis on March 21.