Mavericks vs Grizzlies: Struggling Titans Collide

A Tale of Two Strugglers: Mavericks and Grizzlies Face Off

When the Dallas Mavericks (2-6) and Memphis Grizzlies (3-6) clash on November 7, 2025, it’s less a clash of titans and more a battle of wounded warriors. Both franchises enter FedEx Forum reeling, with the Mavs carrying a three-game losing streak and Memphis dropping four straight. This NBA Cup West Group B matchup features two teams desperately seeking momentum amid injury woes and inconsistent performances.

Key Storylines to Watch

Cooper Flagg’s Evolution: The Mavericks’ rookie phenom, Cooper Flagg, delivered his best performance yet against the Pelicans with 20 points and three steals after shifting from point guard to small forward.

Cooper Flagg’s emergence as a key playmaker for the Mavericks - Image from https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/basketball/cooper-flagg-s-absurd-dunk-should-give-mavericks-hope-for-life/ar-AA1PTZZb

His adjustment under Jason Kidd’s guidance could be pivotal against Memphis’ aggressive defense. "He just isn’t a point guard," notes SI’s Austin Veazey. "He’s best as a secondary playmaker."

Ja Morant’s Return: Memphis’ star point guard returns from a suspension averaging 20 points and 7.3 assists. However, his efficiency concerns persist—6-of-19 shooting against Houston coupled with six turnovers. Can Morant find rhythm against a Mavericks defense missing Anthony Davis (calf strain)?

Offensive Woes: Both squads rank near the NBA’s bottom in offensive efficiency. Dallas struggles with spacing without Luka Doncic, while Memphis can’t sustain leads. "The vibes around both teams are horrendous," Veazey observes. "Mavs fans might even want a close loss to push front-office changes."

How to Catch the Action

Tip-off is set for 8:00 PM ET. Fans can catch the game on FanDuel Sports Network Midwest Extra (Missouri) and MyNetworkTV (KJBO – Wichita Falls). For cord-cutters, Fubo offers a free trial to stream the matchup, along with ESPN, NBA TV, and regional broadcasts.

"Memphis dropped its fourth straight, scoring first but never leading again in a 124-109 loss to Houston." – Newsweek

Key Players in Focus

Mavericks: P.J. Washington (15.8 PPG, 8.6 RPG), Daniel Gafford (15.0 PPG)
Grizzlies: Jaren Jackson Jr. (16.0 PPG), Santi Aldama (11.6 PPG, 6.8 RPG)

Ja Morant looks to lead the struggling Grizzlies offense - Image from https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nba/grizzlies/2025/11/08/ja-morant-memphis-grizzlies-dallas-mavericks-jaren-jackson-jr/87009644007/

With Anthony Davis sidelined, Dallas relies on Washington’s versatility and Gafford’s rim protection. Memphis needs Aldama and Jackson Jr. to capitalize on the Mavs’ size disadvantage while Morant orchestrates the attack.

What’s at Stake

For the Grizzlies, snapping their skid is critical to salvage NBA Cup hopes. Dallas, meanwhile, seeks confidence after narrow losses. As Veazey predicts: "Expect a close, gritty affair. Both teams lack offensive firepower, but Memphis’ home edge could tip the scales."

Don’t miss this clash of rebuilding giants—tune in Friday night to witness which struggling team can find traction in the early NBA season.