Dallas MavericksOpen full analysis
Memphis GrizzliesOpen full analysis
Memphis defeated Dallas 118–104 on November 7 at FedExForum, with Ja Morant and C. Coward each scoring 21 points to lead the Grizzlies' balanced attack. Memphis shot 48.2 percent from the field and made 13 three-pointers while forcing Dallas into 17 turnovers compared to their own 13 miscues. The Grizzlies' defense proved decisive, holding the Mavericks to a 101.9 offensive rating and forcing seven steals. Dallas, led by M. Christie's 18 points and N. Marshall's 16, struggled to maintain rhythm despite shooting 48.8 percent; the Mavericks' 44 rebounds and 25 assists were offset by their offensive inefficiency in crunch time. Memphis built separation in the second quarter, outscoring Dallas 40–27, and never surrendered the lead thereafter. The 14-point margin reflected Memphis's superior ball security and perimeter shooting, which proved the difference in a defensive-minded contest. The Grizzlies' win strengthens their playoff positioning in a competitive Western Conference.
