Kyrie Irving Health Update: Will the point-guard feature in Dallas Maverick's clash against Memphis Grizzlies? - Check Out

The Dallas Mavericks are preparing for a crucial road matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies in the National Basketball Association (NBA), but the former will have to navigate the game without its two-star players, Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic. Irving has been sidelined due to a lumbar back sprain, joining Doncic on the injury list. Irving was unavailable for the Mavericks' loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday, and he will not be suiting up for the upcoming game against Memphis.

Mavericks' struggles without key players

The absence of both Irving and Doncic creates a significant challenge for the Mavericks, as they face the daunting task of playing an important game without their two best players.

This marks the fourth time this season that the Mavericks have been forced to play without both stars, and the team has yet to secure a win under these circumstances. As Christian Clark of The Athletic reported, “Mavericks 0-3 in games without Luka and Kyrie this season. Won’t have either of them tomorrow in Memphis.”

Doncic, who has been out since suffering a left calf strain in the Mavericks’ Christmas Day loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, is not expected to return until February 2. Irving, on the other hand, is expected to rejoin the team after the game against the Grizzlies.

Grizzlies' strong form and potential absence of Ja Morant

The Memphis Grizzlies have been a tough opponent this season, currently holding a 23-13 record, which ties them with the Houston Rockets for the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference. Despite being seven games behind the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Grizzlies have shown consistency throughout the season.

One key factor for the Mavericks will be whether star guard Ja Morant is available for the game. Morant is listed as questionable, and if he is unable to play, it could provide the Mavericks with a slight advantage in the matchup. Regardless of Morant's status, the Grizzlies still have formidable star power in power forward Jaren Jackson Jr., who leads the team in points (22.3), steals (1.4), and blocks (1.6) per game.

Key areas for Mavericks to focus on

For the Mavericks, limiting the impact of Jaren Jackson Jr. will be essential to slowing down Memphis. With fewer offensive weapons available due to Irving and Doncic's absences, Dallas will need to be especially strategic in defence to prevent Jackson from dominating the game.

Additionally, the Mavericks' backcourt, which will rely heavily on players like P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford, will need to focus on containing the Grizzlies' centre, Zach Edey. Limiting Edey’s presence on the glass will be crucial for the Mavericks to stay competitive in this challenging road game.