The Memphis Grizzlies are poised to end their four-game home losing streak as they prepare to face the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday night. This matchup marks the fourth encounter between the two teams this season, with Memphis winning the previous game 124-105 on February 28.
The Grizzlies, currently holding a record of 23-41, are looking to improve their performance against division rivals. They have managed a 6-6 record against teams from the Southwest Division. In contrast, the Mavericks have struggled this season with a record of 21-44, placing them 12th in the Western Conference.
In terms of offensive output, Memphis ranks sixth in the conference, averaging 115.9 points per game while shooting 46.2% from the field. Dallas has faced challenges defensively, allowing an average of 117.8 points per game and being outscored by an average of 4.8 points in their matchups.
The Grizzlies have shown capability with their shooting, maintaining a field goal percentage slightly lower than Dallas”s defensive average of 47.0%. Additionally, Memphis has been vulnerable from beyond the arc, giving up an average of 14.0 three-pointers per game, while the Mavericks average 10.6 made threes.
Some key players to watch include Cedric Coward, who averages 13.4 points and 6.4 rebounds per game for the Grizzlies. GG Jackson has also been a standout, contributing 17.0 points over the last ten games. For the Mavericks, Naji Marshall scores 15.0 points per game, and Klay Thompson has averaged 2.9 made three-pointers in his recent outings.
Both teams come into this game struggling, as the Grizzlies have gone 2-8 in their last ten games, averaging 118.3 points while allowing opponents to score 123.0 points per game. The Mavericks also share a similar record of 2-8 in their last ten, scoring an average of 107.8 points while their opponents have averaged 119.6 points.
In terms of injuries, the Grizzlies have several key players listed as day-to-day, including Santi Aldama, Taj Gibson, Walter Clayton Jr., and Scotty Pippen Jr. Notably, Ja Morant and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope are out for the season. The Mavericks will be without Dereck Lively II and Kyrie Irving, both confirmed out for the remainder of the season.
With both teams eager to secure a much-needed victory, the matchup promises to deliver intensity as Memphis aims to turn their home fortune around.
