The Memphis Grizzlies will be without Ja Morant, Brandon Clarke, Ty Jerome, Scotty Pippen Jr., and Javon Small for their Saturday matchup against the Dallas Mavericks, while Jaren Jackson Jr. is listed as doubtful with a right ankle sprain. Morant and Jerome both sit out with right calf strains, significantly impacting Memphis’ scoring and playmaking.
Memphis enters the game after a dominant 137-96 victory over the Kings on November 20, following a 111-101 loss to the Spurs on November 18.
The absence of Morant and Jackson Jr. significantly impacts Memphis’ offense, as they lead the team in scoring and playmaking with 17.9 points per game each. Cedric Coward is averaging 14.6 points per game, while Santi Aldama contributes 13.5 points and 6.7 rebounds.
The Grizzlies’ injuries leave the team relying on Coward, Aldama, and backup contributors to maintain offensive production and defensive stability against a Mavericks team riding momentum from a 118-115 win over the Pelicans on November 21.
Dallas has not yet submitted its injury report for the game. Anthony Davis leads the team in scoring with 20.8 points per game, Mavericks’ No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg is averaging 16.4 points and 6.4 rebounds per game, while P.J. Washington adds 15.0 points and 7.8 boards. Max Christie averages 12.9 points and 2.4 assists, with D’Angelo Russell contributing 12.6 points and 5.0 assists.
The matchup marks the second meeting of the season between the two teams, with the Grizzlies having won their previous encounter 118-104 on November 7. Both teams are struggling to climb above the .500 mark, with Memphis at 5-11 and Dallas at 5-12.
Tipoff is scheduled for 8:30 PM ET at American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas.
