MEMPHIS, Tenn. (Interstat) — The Memphis Grizzlies, seeking consistency in a middling season, will host the struggling New Orleans Pelicans on Friday night at FedExForum. The Grizzlies (18-23) are looking to build on a 126-109 rout of Orlando last Sunday. Ja Morant was dominant in that victory, posting 24 points and 13 assists. The star guard has been a catalyst, averaging 23.6 points and 9.6 assists over his last five games. Memphis has split its last 10 contests. They face a Pelicans team mired in a difficult season at 10-35. New Orleans is coming off a 119-110 road loss to Houston on Sunday, its eighth defeat in the last 10 games. Despite the team’s struggles, forward Zion Williamson remains a focal point, averaging 22.1 points, 5.8 rebounds and 4.1 assists over his last 10 outings. He scored 31 points in a win over Washington on Jan. 9 and 35 in a loss to Portland on Jan. 2, highlighting his explosive capability. The season series is tied 1-1, with both teams protecting home court in high-scoring affairs. Memphis won 128-122 in October, and New Orleans took a 133-128 decision in November. Friday’s matchup will be the first of a home-and-home set, with the teams meeting again in New Orleans next Friday. For the Pelicans, containing Morant’s playmaking will be critical, as they rank near the bottom of the league in defensive rating. Memphis, meanwhile, must contend with Williamson’s physicality inside. The Grizzlies have found recent success when sharing the ball, notching 30 or more assists in three of their last five games. The game tips off at 7 p.m. CST. Memphis continues its homestand against Denver on Sunday, while New Orleans travels to face San Antonio on Sunday.