3 things to think about before the Dallas Mavericks play the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA Cup

3 Things to Consider Before the Dallas Mavericks vs. Memphis Grizzlies NBA Cup Game

The Dallas Mavericks (2-6) travel to Memphis Friday night for their first NBA Cup matchup against the Grizzlies (3-6). Both teams struggle significantly, making this a battle between two dysfunctional squads.

Team Struggles and Losing Streaks

The Grizzlies attempt to reconcile with star Ja Morant, while the Mavericks struggle simply to make shots. Each team is currently on a losing streak—Dallas with three consecutive losses, Memphis with four. Despite a victory potentially ending the streak, either team’s deeper problems remain unresolved.

Current Crises Facing Each Team

The Mavericks face an existential challenge after a harsh defeat to the Pelicans. Meanwhile, the Grizzlies must decide between backing star Ja Morant or supporting their coaching staff, a dilemma emerging just months after Morant influenced the previous coach's exit.

Performance Metrics and Playing Style

Both teams rank in the bottom five for offensive rating.
Both are in the bottom six for net rating.
They play at one of the league’s top five fastest paces.

This means they not only play poor basketball but also do so at a very fast tempo.

Rookie Prospects Offer Hope

A bright spot for each franchise is their first-round draft picks: Cooper Flagg for Dallas and Cedric Coward for Memphis. These rookies provide a glimpse of optimism amid the overall bleak situations for both teams’ rosters.

The matchup between Flagg and Coward might mark the start of many future showdowns.

Additional Note

Historically, Dallas dominated the series against Memphis when Luka Doncic was a Maverick.

"It is a tale of two dysfunctional teams: the Grizzlies, who attempt to make peace with star Ja Morant, and the Mavericks, who attempt to make, well, a shot."

"One losing streak will have to end... although a win will not solve the deep-rooted issues for either team."

Author’s summary: Both teams face critical challenges and struggles, but their promising rookies could be hopeful signs for future success.

Mavs Moneyball — 2025-11-07