The Dallas Mavericks and Memphis Grizzlies prepare for Thursday night’s clash at FedExForum, but both teams face significant absences that could shape the game.
Dallas will be without Kyrie Irving and Dereck Lively II, both sidelined following knee and foot surgeries, while Klay Thompson is listed as doubtful for rest. Moussa Cisse, John Poulakidas, and Tyler Smith are all doubtful as well.
Memphis is missing several key contributors, including Ja Morant, Zach Edey, Brandon Clarke, and Santi Aldama. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Scotty Pippen Jr. are also out, while Walter Clayton Jr., Cedric Coward, Taj Gibson, Ty Jerome, and Cam Spencer are questionable or doubtful. This extensive injury list comes as the Grizzlies try to end a five-game losing streak.
Dallas enters the game on an eight-game skid following losses to Toronto and Atlanta. Cooper Flagg leads the Mavericks, averaging 20.1 points and 6.7 rebounds per game this season. Naji Marshall adds 15 points and 4.7 rebounds, while Max Christie contributes 12.7 points and connects on 40.6% of his three-point attempts.
The Grizzlies have struggled offensively without Morant, including a 129-139 loss to Philadelphia. Ty Jerome has been a standout scorer for Memphis this season, producing 20 points per game despite limited availability. Rayan Rupert averages 11.4 points per game and continues to take on a larger scoring role.
Previous meetings between these teams show Memphis holding a clear advantage, winning all three matchups this season, including a 124-105 victory in Dallas on February 27.
Thursday’s matchup tips off at 8:00 PM ET at FedExForum in Memphis.
