NBA Game Preview: #10 Seed Dallas Mavericks vs. #8 Seed Memphis Grizzlies

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The Dallas Mavericks and Memphis Grizzlies are set to face off in a crucial Western Conference Play-In Tournament elimination game. The winner will advance to face the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round of the NBA Playoffs, while the loser’s season will come to an end.

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Game Details

  • Matchup: Dallas Mavericks (#10) vs. Memphis Grizzlies (#8)
  • Date: Friday, April 18, 2025
  • Location: FedExForum, Memphis, TN
  • Time: 8:30 p.m. ET
  • Broadcast: ESPN, NBA League Pass

Season Series & Recent Form

The Grizzlies won the season series 3-1, but their last matchup on April 13 saw both teams resting key players, making it difficult to draw conclusions from those games.

Dallas enters the game with momentum, having dominated the Sacramento Kings in their previous play-in matchup. Meanwhile, Memphis suffered a heartbreaking loss to the Golden State Warriors, blowing a 20-point lead before falling short in the final seconds.

Key Players to Watch

  • Dallas Mavericks:
    • Anthony Davis – Recently returned from injury and was dominant against Sacramento.
    • Dereck Lively II – Provides size and rebounding, crucial against Memphis’ frontcourt.
    • Daniel Gafford – Another key big man who will be vital in the paint battle.
  • Memphis Grizzlies:
    • Ja Morant – Battling injuries but expected to play; his explosiveness will be key.
    • Jaren Jackson Jr. – Likely tasked with defending Davis, a critical matchup.
    • Zach Edey – Has been rebounding at an elite level, crucial against Dallas’ size.

Matchup Breakdown

  • Dallas’ Size vs. Memphis’ Speed:
    The Mavericks will rely on their big lineup, featuring Davis, Lively, and Gafford, while Memphis will look to push the pace with Morant and Jackson Jr..
  • Memphis’ Defense vs. Dallas’ Offense:
    The Grizzlies struggled defensively against Golden State, allowing 126 points. Dallas will look to exploit this with their inside presence and perimeter shooting.
  • Injury Concerns:
    Both teams have key players dealing with injuries, including Morant, Bane, and Jackson Jr. for Memphis, and Davis, Irving, and Lively for Dallas.

Dallas Mavericks                              222

Memphis Grizzlies                          – 6.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, April 17, 2025