The Dallas Mavericks will host the Portland Trail Blazers on Thursday night at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. The Mavericks have been struggling without their star guard Luka Doncic, but Quentin Grimes has stepped up in his absence, while the Trail Blazers have relied on a balanced attack to achieve recent success.
Dallas Mavericks
- Recent Performance: The Mavericks are 2-5 since Luka Doncic went down with a left calf strain. Quentin Grimes has been a bright spot, averaging 15.6 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4 assists over the past seven games. Grimes led the team with 23 points, nine rebounds, and six assists in a 118-97 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday.
- Key Players: Quentin Grimes has been key in Doncic’s absence, coming off the bench and delivering strong performances. Kyrie Irving has missed three straight games and will not play on Thursday due to shoulder and back injuries and an illness.
- Injury Report: Luka Doncic is expected to return late this month at the earliest. Kyrie Irving remains out with various injuries and an illness.
Portland Trail Blazers
- Recent Performance: The Trail Blazers have relied on a balanced attack, with six players scoring in double figures in their 119-100 win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday. Deni Avdija led the way with 26 points, while Shaedon Sharpe and Anfernee Simons added 21 and 17 points, respectively.
- Key Players: Deni Avdija, Shaedon Sharpe, and Anfernee Simons have been key contributors. Robert Williams III, despite limited playing time recently due to ankle injuries, made an impact with four points, six rebounds, and four blocks in 16 minutes against New Orleans.
- Injury Report: Donovan Clingan sat out the game against New Orleans but is expected to be back for the matchup with Dallas.
Key Matchup
- Grimes vs. Blazers’ Defense: Quentin Grimes’ ability to score and facilitate will be crucial for the Mavericks. The Trail Blazers’ defense will need to focus on limiting his effectiveness.
- Balanced Attack: The Trail Blazers’ balanced scoring approach will be a challenge for the Mavericks, who have struggled without their key players.
