Event Preview
Overview
The Dallas Mavericks are set to host the Memphis Grizzlies at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas, on Friday, February 27, 2026, at 8:30 PM ET. This Southwest Division matchup is crucial for both teams as they vie for playoff positioning in the Western Conference. The Grizzlies currently lead the season series 2-0, having secured victories on November 7, 2025, and November 22, 2025. (basketball.realgm.com)
Season Snapshot
Memphis Grizzlies
The Grizzlies have a season record of 20 wins and 33 losses, placing them 9th in the Western Conference standings. They have struggled on the road with a 9-18 away record. Key players include Santi Aldama, who leads the team with an average of 14.0 points per game, and Ja Morant, contributing 19.2 points and 7.4 assists per game. (sportsdata.usatoday.com)
Dallas Mavericks
The Mavericks have a season record of 19 wins and 34 losses, positioning them 12th in the Western Conference. At home, they have a 14-16 record. Anthony Davis has been a standout player, averaging 20.5 points and 10.9 rebounds per game. (sportsdata.usatoday.com)
Recent Form
In their last five games, the Grizzlies have secured one win and suffered four losses. Their most recent game was a 135-115 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers on February 6, 2026. The Mavericks have also faced challenges, winning two and losing three of their last five games. Their latest game was a 129-125 victory over the Sacramento Kings on February 4, 2026. (foxsports.com)
Talking Points
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Playoff Implications: Both teams are battling for a spot in the Western Conference playoffs, making this game pivotal for their postseason aspirations.
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Injury Concerns: Ja Morant's availability for the Grizzlies is uncertain due to a recent elbow injury, which could significantly impact Memphis's performance. (espn.com)
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Home-Court Advantage: The Mavericks will look to leverage their home-court advantage to secure a much-needed win.
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Defensive Strategies: Both teams have struggled defensively this season; the Grizzlies allow 117.5 points per game, while the Mavericks concede 117.3 points per game. (basketball.realgm.com)
Players to Watch
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Santi Aldama (Grizzlies): Aldama has been a consistent scorer for Memphis, leading the team with 14.0 points per game. (sportsdata.usatoday.com)
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Ja Morant (Grizzlies): Morant's playmaking abilities, averaging 7.4 assists per game, are crucial for Memphis's offense. (sportsdata.usatoday.com)
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Anthony Davis (Mavericks): Davis's presence in the paint, contributing 10.9 rebounds per game, is vital for Dallas's defense and rebounding efforts. (sportsdata.usatoday.com)
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Cooper Flagg (Mavericks): Flagg has been a rising star for Dallas, averaging 20.4 points per game and 6.6 rebounds per game. (foxsports.com)
Key Matchups & Storylines
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Point Guard Duel: The matchup between Ja Morant and the Mavericks' point guard will be crucial, especially if Morant is cleared to play.
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Frontcourt Battle: The contest between Anthony Davis and the Grizzlies' frontcourt players will be pivotal in controlling the paint.
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Defensive Adjustments: Both teams need to improve their defensive strategies to limit scoring opportunities for the opposition.
Fun Facts
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The Grizzlies have won the last two encounters against the Mavericks, both in the 2025-2026 season. (basketball.realgm.com)
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The Mavericks have a 14-16 home record this season, indicating a strong home-court performance. (basketball.realgm.com)
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Ja Morant is averaging 7.4 assists per game, showcasing his playmaking skills. (sportsdata.usatoday.com)
Things to Chirp About
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"Can the Mavericks turn their home-court advantage into a win against the Grizzlies?"
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"How will the potential absence of Ja Morant affect the Grizzlies' chances?"
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"Is Anthony Davis's performance enough to lead the Mavericks to victory?"
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"Will the Grizzlies' defense improve to contain the Mavericks' offense?"
Prediction
This game is expected to be closely contested, with both teams battling for a crucial win. The Mavericks' home-court advantage and the potential absence of Ja Morant for the Grizzlies could tip the scales in Dallas's favor. However, the Grizzlies' recent victories over the Mavericks suggest they have the upper hand. Overall, it's anticipated to be a hard-fought matchup with playoff implications on the line.