When you’re missing star players like Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, the basketball court can feel like a battlefield without its generals. Such was the case for the Dallas Mavericks, who succumbed to a spirited Memphis Grizzlies squad led by Jaren Jackson Jr., claiming a decisive 119-104 victory at FedExForum.
Here’s how the action unfolded.
Jaren Jackson Jr.: A One-Man Wrecking Crew
Jaren Jackson Jr., aka “Triple J,” decided to unleash his inner MVP with an incredible stat line: 35 points, 13 rebounds, and 5 assists. Whether it was finishing strong in the paint or swatting shots into oblivion, Jackson proved why he’s one of the most versatile big men in the league.
“I just wanted to stay aggressive,” Jackson said post-game. “With Ja (Morant) and Des (Bane) out, it was on me to set the tone.”
Mission accomplished, Jaren.
Support from the Bench
Memphis wasn’t just a one-man show. Scotty Pippen Jr. added 18 points, showcasing his potential as a rising star. Jaylen Wells chipped in with a double-double, tallying 17 points and 11 rebounds, further solidifying the Grizzlies’ depth.
The Grizzlies bench has quietly become one of the team’s greatest assets, especially during injury-plagued games like this one.
Mavericks Struggle Without Doncic and Irving
Let’s face it—no Luka Doncic and no Kyrie Irving meant Dallas was always going to face an uphill battle. Losing Daniel Gafford to an ankle sprain in the second quarter didn’t help their case either.
Despite the setbacks, P.J. Washington fought valiantly with 17 points and 10 rebounds, while Klay Thompson and Jaden Hardy contributed 15 points apiece. But the Mavericks’ reliance on long-range shots became their undoing, as they failed to match Memphis’ dominance in the paint.
Key Moments: When Memphis Took Control
The Mavericks kept the game within reach, narrowing Memphis’ lead to just five points midway through the fourth quarter. But the Grizzlies answered with a commanding 10-2 run, spearheaded by Jackson’s defensive stops and Scotty Pippen Jr.’s timely shooting.
From there, it was all Memphis. The home crowd roared as the Grizzlies stretched their lead to double digits, securing their 10th win in 11 home games.
Key Stats: Owning the Paint
The Grizzlies did what they do best: dominate the paint.
- Points in the Paint: Memphis outscored Dallas 52-32 inside, flexing their physicality.
- Rebounds: Memphis grabbed 55 boards, including 13 offensive rebounds, outworking Dallas on second-chance opportunities.
- Turnovers: After a shaky start, Memphis tightened up, finishing with fewer turnovers than their opponents.
Takeaways from the Game
For the Mavericks:
Dallas’ lack of depth without Doncic and Irving was glaring. The Mavericks’ five-game losing streak highlights their over-reliance on star power and inability to adapt when the bench is called upon.
For the Grizzlies:
Memphis continues to showcase why they’re one of the toughest teams at home. With Jackson leading the charge and their bench stepping up, the Grizzlies are a team to watch as they gear up for the playoffs.
FAQs
Jackson scored 35 points, leading the Grizzlies to victory.
Doncic is dealing with a left calf strain, while Irving is sidelined with a bulging disk in his back.
The Mavericks will look to snap their losing streak in their next matchup, while the Grizzlies aim to extend their home dominance.
Conclusion
The Grizzlies vs Mavericks game served as a showcase for Jaren Jackson Jr.’s brilliance and Memphis’ resilience. As the Grizzlies continue their stellar home run, the Mavericks face mounting pressure to bounce back, especially with their stars sidelined.
For Memphis fans, this win was yet another reminder that the Grizzlies are serious contenders in the West. And for Dallas? It’s time to regroup—quickly.
