Grizzlies v. Mavericks Preview

Colin Rafferty –

Your Memphis Grizzlies are in Dallas tonight, as they are slated to play the 5-12 Mavericks. It has been just over two weeks since these two teams played.

The game on November 7th was an NBA Cup game at the FedEx Forum, that the Grizz won 118-104.

Since that game, both teams haven’t played great. Grizzlies have gone 1-5 and the Mav’s 2-4, in that stretch.

That lone win coming Thursday against the Kings, one that was much needed.

Yet again, another great opportunity for them to get a win under the belt.

Both teams are banged up, but the Grizz have played and looked better in their last three games, despite a few losses.

Jaren Jackson Jr. is still listed as DOUBTFUL for tonight as he is nursing a right-ankle sprain. Other injury related news, Javon Small is progressing well in his rehabilitation and he is expected to return to play in 6-9 weeks.

The Mavericks are coming off a close win against the Pelicans last night, 118-115; where P.J. Washington, Max Christie, and Cooper Flagg had over 20-point nights.

A bit of a coming out party for Flagg, who was drafted number 1 overall in last year’s draft, as he had 29 points, 12 rebounds, and 2 blocks.

Still, the Pelicans have won 2 games all year, the Grizz should be able to capatilize on the second game of the Mav’s back-to-back.

Continue to play great defense and move that ball around, and they should get out of there on a two-game win streak. I guess you can call it a streak, only when you’ve won 5 games does it make it sound like one.

I would expect to see a little more Jahmai Mashack tonight, being able to practice with the team will help his understanding of the offense and where guys need to be.

The Grizz need all the help they can get at guard right now.

The recent play from Vince Williams Jr. has been nothing short of exceptional, he has helped the team find a groove offensively, while the true point guards are sidelined.

They will need more of that tonight.

Other guys to keep a look out for are Cedric Coward, Zach Edey, and Santi Aldama; these guys have answered the call, and all are playing aggressive, smart basketball.

The past few weeks for sports fans in Memphis have been a bit hard, but with a few win’s things can start to turn around.

Tip-off is at 7:30 PM CST, you can listen on 92.9 FM for the home call and watch live on the FanDuel Sports Network.

There will be plenty of college football games going on, so be sure to tune in to cheer on the Bears off Beale!