Mavericks Solidify Struggles with Heavy Defeat to Grizzlies
The Dallas Mavericks face significant struggles, highlighted by their recent 118-104 defeat to the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. This loss marks the Mavericks’ fourth consecutive setback, leaving them with a disappointing 2-7 record and the bottom position in the Western Conference standings.
Mavericks’ Ongoing Struggles
With their latest defeat, the Mavericks now sit at the lowest point in the Western Conference, tied with the Oklahoma City Thunder before the game. The team’s struggles appear to stem from persistent offensive inefficiencies. Coach Jason Kidd acknowledged the team’s challenges, stating, “It just happens that we’re struggling early.” He emphasized the collective responsibility to improve.
Key Game Highlights
- The Grizzlies led the game with a significant advantage, reaching up to 97-62 late in the third quarter.
- Despite a brief Mavericks rally, Memphis maintained control, winning comfortably.
- Ja Morant starred for Memphis, scoring 21 points and assisting 13 times, showing a dramatic improvement from previous games.
The Mavericks did manage to cut the lead down to 115-102 with just over two minutes remaining, but it was not enough to threaten the Grizzlies’ victory. The team recognized their hardships, with Max Christie stating that “this isn’t even on the coaches. This is the players.”
Injury Impact
The absence of key players has greatly affected the Mavericks. Anthony Davis and Dereck Lively II missed their fourth and fifth consecutive games, respectively. Center Daniel Gafford also faced difficulties, playing limited minutes due to a recent ankle injury.
- Gafford finished the game with no points and a -26 plus-minus rating in just 12 minutes.
- Moussa Cisse, a returning player from Memphis, contributed significantly, scoring 10 points and grabbing eight rebounds in just 14 minutes.
Statistical Overview
The Mavericks rank poorly in several key statistical categories:
- Last in average points per game: 106.3
- Last in offensive rating: 103.2
- 26th in field goal percentage: 44.0%
- 28th in 3-point percentage: 31.5%
- 29th in rebound percentage
- However, they rank 5th in defensive rating, indicating their ability to keep games competitive despite offensive struggles.
Coach Kidd remains hopeful, stressing the importance of consistency and commitment to improvement. He urged players to keep practicing and working through their current challenges.
As the Mavericks prepare for their next game against the struggling Washington Wizards, who have just one win this season, the urgency to turn their season around continues to grow.
