DENVER (Interstat) — The Denver Nuggets, firmly entrenched in the Western Conference playoff picture, host the struggling Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday night at Ball Arena in a matchup of teams at opposite ends of the standings.

Denver (50-27) enters on a nine-game winning streak, powered by the relentless play of two-time MVP Nikola Jokic. The center is averaging a triple-double over his last 10 games, including a 40-point, 13-assist performance in a 136-134 win over San Antonio on April 4. The Nuggets have won 14 of their last 15.

Memphis (25-53) has lost seven of its last eight games and is playing out the string of a difficult season. The Grizzlies are coming off a 131-115 loss in Milwaukee on Sunday. Rookie guard Rayan Rupert was a bright spot in that defeat, posting a triple-double with 33 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists. His production has been inconsistent, however, following that career night with just four points in a loss to Toronto.

The season series favors Denver, which has won both prior meetings. The Nuggets earned a 122-116 home win on Feb. 11 and a 125-115 victory in Memphis on Nov. 24.

For the Nuggets, the game represents a critical opportunity to solidify seeding against an overmatched opponent before a tough closing stretch that includes games against Oklahoma City and San Antonio. For the Grizzlies, it’s another chance for young players like Rupert to develop against elite competition.

Jokic’s all-around dominance will be the primary focus, as Memphis lacks the interior defense to consistently slow him. The Grizzlies, allowing an average of 124.3 points during their 1-7 skid, will need an efficient offensive night to keep pace with Denver’s top-five attack.

Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. MDT Wednesday.