Dallas is heading to Memphis for a divisional matchup with the Grizzlies to open their NBA Cup group play. Even less than 10 games into the new year, this feels like a “loser leaves town” matchup. The
Mavericks and Grizzlies are both reeling from the recent drama surrounding each team, compounded by a lot of losing. Truly, this game could be a turning point in either season, for better or for worse. One bright spot to pay attention to (and bet on) will be the rookie matchup between lottery picks Cooper Flagg and Cedric Coward. They should have a fun matchup, while everyone else tries to resemble the sport of basketball in some way.
Game intangibles
Dallas Mavericks (2-6) at Memphis Grizzlies (3-6)
Tipoff: 7:00p CT at the FedExForum in Memphis, TN
How to watch: The game will be televised locally on KFAA Channel 29, or streaming on Mavs TV for anyone in the Mavericks media market. For those outside of the viewing area, NBA League Pass will have you covered.
Odds via the Fanduel Sportsbook as of Noon CST
Spread: Dallas +4.5 (-110)
Over/Under: 232.5 (-110/-110)
Moneyline: Dallas +154
Player props
Cedric Coward to score 15+ points (+150)
Cooper Flagg to score 20+ points (+134)
Both rookies have excellent matchups in this game. Coward is shooting over 50 percent from the floor this year and has played nearly 30 minutes a game in their last three. He can shoot (he made six threes earlier this year), and has the size to take advantage of Dallas’ soft defense. Flagg is a great bounce-back candidate after his horrid shooting night on Wednesday, including missing the game-tying shot. He has followed up every game he has shot under 50 percent (except the first one) with one where he shoots 50 percent or better. He is due for a career night, and tonight is the perfect opportunity.
Game sides
Under 232.5 (-110)
Mavericks under 114.5 points (-114)
Despite the likelihood of big games from both teams’ first-year guys, this will still be an ugly, low-scoring affair. The Mavericks have scored 115 points a single time. In fact, they have only scored 110 twice. If they burn me tonight, so be it. But I am fading this team until they prove that their offense can do anything. And the offensive struggles go beyond Dallas. 233 is too many points for a game where the teams combine to score 221 a game. Take the under and tell your mother she’s getting a new car.
