The Dallas Mavericks (2-6) will experience NBA Cup play for the first time on Friday night, facing the Memphis Grizzlies (3-6) at FedExForum. The Mavericks enter on a three-game losing streak, while the Grizzlies come off four consecutive losses amidst ongoing issues involving star guard Ja Morant.
Memphis suffered their fourth straight defeat on Wednesday, losing 124-109 at home to the Houston Rockets. The Grizzlies scored first but never regained the lead. Key performances included Cam Spencer, who added 19 points off the bench, and Ja Morant, who posted 17 points, eight assists, and six turnovers on 6-of-19 shooting. Santi Aldama contributed 16 points in the loss.
Morant, suspended for a game over the weekend for “detrimental conduct,” is averaging 20.0 points and 7.3 assists on .383/.140/.957 shooting splits.
The Mavericks lost their third straight game on Wednesday, falling 101-99 to the visiting New Orleans Pelicans. A final attempt by Cooper Flagg clanged off the rim with two seconds remaining. Flagg, shifted from point guard to small forward to accommodate D’Angelo Russell starting at point for the first time this season, scored 20 points with three steals. P.J. Washington added 15 points and 11 rebounds, and Daniel Gafford contributed 15 points.
Author’s summary: The Mavericks and Grizzlies both struggle with losing streaks and roster adjustments, making Friday’s NBA Cup match a critical test for each team’s resilience and key players' impact.