The Memphis Grizzlies will play against the Dallas Mavericks tonight at the American Airlines Center. The Grizzlies are coming off wins against the Los Angeles Lakers and Phoenix Suns which could suggest they are quite prepared. But the Mavericks have not shown any signs of weakness in recent times, as the results explain. They are on a 3-game winning streak, including a victory against the mighty Minnesota Timberwolves.
The Mavs have a record of 22-15 so far, which is pretty decent considering how they started their season. Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic complement each other’s play style much better, which has been the goal all along for Jason Kidd. The Grizzlies, on the other hand, have a record of 13-23.
Up until Ja Morant‘s return, the Memphis-based franchise was struggling but it looked like he could lead them to playoff contention. However, it looks like Grizzlies fans’ dreams have been crushed.
Ja Morant is out for the Memphis Grizzlies vs Dallas Mavericks game tonight
Recent reports have mentioned that Ja Morant will miss the remainder of the 2023-24 NBA season. Grizzlies fans would not have received worse news than this. Morant was undoubtedly the star of the team since returning from a 25-game suspension recently.
The @memgrizz announced the following medical update: pic.twitter.com/Cr7xKj1Wm4
— Grizzlies PR (@GrizzliesPR) January 9, 2024
NBA insiders claim that the player has suffered a labrum tear, and would require major surgeries to recover. This will be a huge blow for the Grizzlies, who most likely wouldn’t be able to fill in Ja’s big shoes.
The Mavericks might also miss a couple of superstars, including Luka Doncic. The Slovenian is listed as probable with ankle swelling, which has resulted in his presence on the injury report for the last few games.
Memphis Grizzlies injury report
- Ja Morant (out)
- Santi Aldama (doubtful)
- Jaren Jackson Jr. (questionable)
- Derrick Rose (out)
- Brandon Clark (out)
- Steven Adams (out)
Memphis Grizzlies expected roster
- Jaren Jackson Jr.
- Desmond Bane
- Xavier Tillman Sr.
- Marcus Smart
- Vince Williams Jr.
Dallas Mavericks injury report
- Luka Doncic (probable)
- Maxi Kleber (out)
- Dereck Lively II (out)
- Dante Exum (out)
- Grant Williams (probable)
Dallas Mavericks expected roster
- Luka Doncic
- Kyrie Irving
- Josh Green
- Dwight Powell
- Derrick Jones Jr.
Can Luka Doncic and Co. take advantage of Ja Morant’s absence?
Ja’s absence will surely tilt the scale in the Mavericks’ favor. Considering that Luka and Kyrie have both been in electrifying form, there are high chances that the Mavs can take the win. Jaren Jackson Jr. could fight through his injury to step up for the Grizzlies tonight but with the absence of Derrick Rose and Steven Adams, they might not have enough firepower.
The last time that the Grizzlies faced the Mavs was in December 2023. The Mavs won the game 120-113, thanks to a 35-point game from Luka and a double-double from Derick Lively II. Although the latter will be missing tonight’s game, Kyrie’s presence would be an added boost for the Mavs.
Jaren Jackson Jr. was the standout player for the Grizzlies in that game, scoring 41 points. He would lead the charge against the Mavs, but the Texas-based franchise’s momentum and current form may be the difference between the two teams tonight.