DALLAS, TEXAS — Friday night the Dallas Mavericks are looking to stay in the win column as they take on a tough Memphis Grizzlies team. The Grizzlies are coming off a win over the Utah Jazz on Wednesday and the Mavericks are coming off a win over the Houston Rockets 121-115. Though each of these teams enters the game with a lot of momentum, Dallas’s star power will once again be crucial in helping them win.
Jaren Jackson Jr. is the leader of the Grizzlies; earlier this week, he scored 20 points and had six blocks against the Utah Jazz. The Grizzlies have had a difficult season; their four-game losing run was snapped with their victory over Utah. This team’s problem is star power; after losing Ja Morant, they have found it difficult to get into an attacking rhythm. Derrick Rose is a fantastic addition to this squad and has the potential to provide them with the winning spark they need in certain situations. Having only made his first starting debut as a Grizzly last game he already had 14 points and 9 assists. This injury-plagued club has to step up and produce some huge plays if it hopes to defeat the Dallas Mavericks and make a significant statement.
Regarding the Mavericks, Luka Dončić is without a doubt the team’s standout player. In a victory over the Rockets, he finished with 41 points, 9 rebounds, and 9 assists. Adding 27 points, Kyrie Irving has been a much stronger complementary player to Dončić this season than he was last. Kyrie and Luka’s relationship will only get better, and if that continues, this Mavericks club could be difficult to beat. It is important to remember that Doncic is having trouble with a little sprain on his left thumb, which is his non-shooting hand. Even if he seems to be playing through the pain, it’s still something to watch out for. In three games so far this season, Doncic has scored at least 40 points. Kyrie and Luka may have a lethal balance. It is imperative that the other steps up if one is not performing up to par.
Friday night’s tip-off time at American Airlines Center is scheduled at 6:30.
