Grizzlies vs Mavericks Preview: Ja’s Ankle, AD’s Rise, and One Spot Left, Who Will Bounce to the Playoffs?

The Memphis Grizzlies will take on the Dallas Mavericks in the final Play-In game in the Western Conference. The Grizzlies vs Mavericks fixture will be played at the FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. Needless to say, the Grizzlies will have the crowd backing them due to the home-court advantage.

However, Grizzlies have been quite off form lately. Despite being in a strong position to advance into the NBA Playoffs directly, a series of close losses pushed them into the Play-In territory. Even in their first Play-In game against the Golden State Warriors, Memphis started the game poorly, which eventually cost them the game in the end.

Ja Morant was the only silver lining for the Grizzlies in their 116-121 defeat to GSW. On the other end, things have started clicking for the Dallas Mavericks, especially after Anthony Davis’ injury recovery. In the Play-In game against the Sacramento Kings, Dallas held their nerves and delivered a dominant 120-106 victory.

Also Read: Fans React to Sacramento Kings Parting Ways With GM Monte McNair After Play-In Tournament Elimination

Grizzlies vs Mavericks: Complete Fixture Information

Venue: FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee
Date: 18th April (Friday)
Time: 9:30 PM ET
TV: ESPN
Live Streaming: Sling
Head to Head: 3-1 in favor of Memphis Grizzlies (2024-25 Season)

Key Players to Watch Out For:

Memphis Grizzlies: Zach Edey, Ja Morant

Zach Edey’s rebounding skills have sharply improved, making him a high-ceiling center. Unlike the Warriors, the Dallas Mavericks have big players, and that is where Zach Edey’s physical attributes will come in handy. Most likely, Edey will be guarding Anthony Davis. Given the context of the game and the team opposite, Zach Edey’s importance cannot be overstated.

Ja Morant is doubtful for the final Play-In game after landing awkwardly on his ankle in the GSW game. If there is any improvement in his ankle, Morant will push to play on Friday, given the stature of the game. The youngster has come alive in the recent phase of games, and his performance against the Warriors was another reminder of his scoring prowess.

Dallas Mavericks: Anthony Davis, Klay Thompson

Klay Thompson has the ability to take the game away from his opposition early, which is what happened against the Sacramento Kings. Klay’s accurate and back-to-back threes resulted in a gigantic lead for the Mavericks. His presence, especially with Zach Edey guarding Anthony Davis, will be more crucial.

Anthony Davis has also picked up form in the fag end of the NBA season. The 32-year-old scored 27 points and took 9 rebounds. When healthy, Davis turns into a lethal scoring option as well as a major threat to the offensive drives by the opposition teams. Given the presence of Desmond Bane, Ja Morant, Zach Edey, and Jaren Jackson Jr, the responsibility to hold the Mavericks’ defense will be huge on Anthony Davis.