MEMPHIS, Tenn. – The Dallas Mavericks, led by Luka Doncic’s 35 points, overcame a string of injuries to secure a 120-113 win against the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday night. The victory marked their third consecutive win, highlighting the team’s resilience and depth.
Doncic’s performance was complemented by Dereck Lively II, who notched a double-double with 16 points and 16 rebounds. Jaden Hardy’s 19 points off the bench and Dante Exum’s 16 points also played significant roles in the Mavericks’ success. Dallas managed this win despite missing key players, including Kyrie Irving, the team’s second-leading scorer.
Hardy’s contribution was notable for his efficiency from the three-point line, a testament to his confidence in shooting from distance. “When I’m out there and the ball is finding me, it’s just being ready to shoot,” Hardy said.
The Grizzlies, despite a season-high 41 points from Jaren Jackson Jr. and 28 from Desmond Bane, struggled to find consistent offensive support. Vince Williams Jr. was the only other Memphis player to reach double figures, illustrating the team’s current offensive woes.
Memphis coach Taylor Jenkins acknowledged the team’s performance issues, highlighting the need for more collective effort and not just relying on Jackson and Bane.
Dallas established a significant lead early in the fourth quarter and successfully countered every Memphis attempt to close the gap. Notably, Doncic’s performance included his 1,000th career 3-pointer.
The Mavericks faced additional challenges with injuries, as Tim Hardaway, a vital contributor, missed the game due to back spasms, and Derrick Jones Jr. left the game early. These absences meant Dallas was without players who average a combined 40 points per game.
For Memphis, the absence of leading scorer Ja Morant, who is nearing the end of a 25-game suspension, continues to impact their scoring, as they average only 106 points per game.
Lively’s impressive rebounding was a key factor in Dallas controlling the boards and capitalizing on second-chance points. Mavs coach Jason Kidd praised Lively’s effort, saying, “I just asked him to get 15 and he got 16.”
The Grizzlies are now facing a challenging season, with a 1-10 home record and a low ranking in the Western Conference. The team eagerly awaits Morant’s return on Dec. 19, hoping it will provide a much-needed boost.
Desmond Bane reflected on the team’s need to regroup and improve execution, stating, “There wasn’t too much to be said after the game. Come in (Tuesday), Get our work. Refresh our minds and be better when we get another opportunity.”
Looking ahead, the Mavericks will host the Los Angeles Lakers, while the Grizzlies travel to face Houston.
This game showcased the Mavericks’ ability to overcome adversity and the individual brilliance of players like Doncic and Lively, while the Grizzlies continue to navigate a challenging period, looking forward to regaining their full strength.
