Grizzlies Edge Mavericks Without Key Players in Hard-Fought Duel

DALLAS — The Memphis Grizzlies defeated the Dallas Mavericks 102-96 on Saturday night despite missing several key players. The game, held at the American Airlines Center, marked the Mavericks’ 18th matchup of the season and the Grizzlies’ 17th.

Both teams were without their All-Star point guards and power forwards: Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis for Dallas, and Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. for Memphis. This created a level playing field but resulted in a lackluster offensive display. The Mavericks managed a narrow lead at halftime, 47-43, after struggling with their shooting percentage.

Dallas relied heavily on rookies Brandon Williams and Cooper Flagg, while the Grizzlies’ Zach Edey dominated on the boards, finishing with 12 points and a season-high 15 rebounds. Memphis capitalized on second-chance points, taking a 9-point lead in the third quarter thanks to strong performances from Santi Aldama and Edey.

As tensions mounted in the second half, the game became chippy. Aldama received a flagrant foul for tripping Flagg, leading to technical fouls between Klay Thompson and Vince Williams Jr. However, Thompson, who scored a season-high 22 points, fueled a comeback for the Mavericks.

In a dramatic final two minutes, Flagg’s putback dunk tied the game, while Gafford and Aldama exchanged baskets. Aldama’s driving layup in the last minute gave Memphis the lead. The Mavericks had a chance to tie with a late three from Thompson, but it missed, securing the Grizzlies’ victory.

The Grizzlies, now 6-11, won consecutive games for the first time this season, while the Mavericks, at 5-13, continue to search for consistency. The game showcased the depth and resilience of both teams amidst injury challenges.

Next, the Mavericks will visit the Miami Heat, while the Grizzlies will host the Denver Nuggets.