The Memphis Grizzlies battled but ultimately fell 120–112 to the Dallas Mavericks Thursday night at FedExForum. Dallas jumped out early, using a big first quarter to establish control and never trailed in the game. Memphis made several pushes, particularly in the third quarter, but couldn’t fully erase the deficit.
The Mavericks were powered by a huge night from Khris Middleton, who poured in 35 points and knocked down eight three-pointers to pace the Dallas offense. MIddleton torched the Grizzlies Thursday night.
Daniel Gafford added a strong inside presence with 22 points and 14 rebounds.
Memphis saw several young contributors step up offensively. Jaylen Wells led the Grizzlies with 23 points, while GG Jackson added 20. Javon Small nearly recorded a double-double with 19 points and nine assists, and Taylor Hendricks chipped in 17 points and 10 rebounds in a solid all-around effort. Despite the balanced scoring, the Grizzlies couldn’t overcome Dallas’ early run and hot shooting from deep.
The loss drops Memphis to 23–42 on the season as the team continues to lean on its young core down the stretch.
The Grizzlies won’t have long to regroup. Memphis heads back on the road for its next matchup Friday night in Detroit. Tip-off against the Pistons is scheduled for 6:30 p.m., and fans can hear the game live on 92.9 FM ESPN.