- What: Emirates NBA Cup Game
- When: December 3, 2024
- Who: Memphis Grizzlies vs. Dallas Mavericks
- Time: 8:40 p.m. EST
- Where: American Airlines Center (Dallas, TX)
The Dallas Mavericks are on a roll, and with Luka Doncic back in action, they’re looking to extend their winning streak to five games against the Memphis Grizzlies.
The Mavs will host the Grizzlies on Tuesday in an NBA Cup game. After a shaky start to the season, the Mavs have found their groove, winning eight of their last nine games.
Doncic’s return from a wrist injury has been a game-changer, and his performance against the Portland Trail Blazers, where he dropped 36 points and dished out 13 assists, is a testament to his elite status in the league.
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Game Preview (Grizzlies vs. Mavericks)
Let’s break down why the Mavericks will not just win but cover that 4-point spread. First, the Grizzlies are coming into this matchup riding a six-game win streak, but let’s not forget the context.
Spread | |||
Memphis Grizzlies +4 Points | -105 | -110 | -110 |
Dallas Mavericks -4 Points | -115 | -110 | -110 |
Memphis has been playing well, but they’ve faced some teams that have struggled recently. At the same time, a solid win, their last game against the Detroit Pistons doesn’t exactly scream dominance.
The Grizzlies have been relying heavily on Marcus Smart, who has stepped up since returning from an illness. Can he keep up this level of play against a Mavericks team that’s firing on all cylinders?
The Mavs’ depth has also been a significant factor in their recent success. Players like Quentin Grimes and Spencer Dinwiddie have stepped up without other stars, and their contributions have been crucial.
Grimes, in particular, has been on fire, scoring a season-high 28 points in the last game. He’s proving to be a reliable option alongside Doncic.
Tell a friend to tell a friend… He’s 🔙 😮💨@luka7doncic // #MFFL pic.twitter.com/9kvqy1v4Hr
— Dallas Mavericks (@dallasmavs) December 2, 2024
Moreover, the Mavericks are playing at home, where they’ve been significantly better. The energy in the American Airlines Center is palpable, and the home crowd can be a huge advantage.
The Grizzlies will have to contend with the Mavericks’ talent and the pressure of playing in a hostile environment.
Regarding betting trends, the Mavericks have been solid against the spread lately, covering in six of their last eight games.
With Doncic back and the team’s current form, it’s difficult to see them not covering the spread against a Grizzlies team that, while hot, may not be as battle-tested against the Mavs’ current lineup.
I would bet the Mavs to cover this 4-point spread at -110 odds.
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Total Points
Total Points | |||
Over 241 | -110 | -110 | -110 |
Under 241 | -110 | -110 | -110 |
Dallas has shown they can score in bunches, averaging 115.6 points per game this season, and with Doncic leading the charge, they’re capable of putting up big numbers.
Defensively, the Mavericks have improved as well, allowing just 110.2 points per game. They’ve been able to clamp down on opposing offenses, and with the Grizzlies’ reliance on Smart and Ja Morant, Dallas has the tools to disrupt their rhythm.
The Mavs’ ability to switch on defense and contest shots will be key in limiting Memphis’s scoring opportunities.
Memphis has picked up the pace in its first 20+ games this season, currently ranking as the third-fastest team in the league.
As it gears up for this matchup against the Mavericks, Memphis also leads the NBA in points scored in the paint.
Impact Stats Presented by @RobinhoodApp pic.twitter.com/MXnQtzrNZK
— Memphis Grizzlies (@memgrizz) December 2, 2024
If Dallas is without Derrick Lively, Memphis will likely capitalize on that by getting easy baskets inside. Additionally, the total has gone over in seven of Dallas’ last eight matchups.
With Luka Doncic back in the lineup, expect a fast and competitive game where both teams push the score well above the projected total.
I would bet Over 241 Points in this high-scoring showdown at -110 odds at Bovada.
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