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NBA

Memphis Grizzlies vs Dallas Mavericks

Saturday, February 28, 2026

Matchup Analysis

This NBA matchup features Memphis Grizzlies (21-36 (11-17)) traveling to take on Dallas Mavericks (21-37 (14-17)) at American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX. These two teams are closely matched, with both squads posting similar scoring differentials this season. This projects as a competitive contest that could go either way. Mavericks averages 114.5 points per game, but they face a Grizzlies defense that holds opponents to 118.1 PPG. The visitors' defensive prowess could limit the home team's scoring output. Meanwhile, Grizzlies scores 115.4 PPG but faces a Mavericks defense that limits opponents to 117.9 PPG. The home team's defensive effort could be the difference-maker. Home court advantage is worth approximately 3.0 points in NBA, and Mavericks will look to leverage their home crowd. Our model sees this as essentially a coin-flip game, projecting just a 2.4-point margin. Expect a tight finish. The 68% confidence interval ranges from Mavericks winning by 18 to losing by 13. Our model aligns closely with the market on this one, suggesting the oddsmakers have priced this game efficiently. Look for small edges in the total and moneyline markets to capitalize on any remaining value.

Team Comparison

MEM Grizzlies
Stat
DAL Mavericks
21-36 (11-17)
Record
21-37 (14-17)
Last 10
115.4
PPG
114.5
118.1
Opp PPG
117.9

Current Odds

Team Moneyline Spread Total
MEM Memphis Grizzlies
+170 +5.5 O 235.5
DAL Dallas Mavericks
-205 -5.5 U 235.5
Source: Draft Kings Updated: Feb 28, 4:59 AM
Opening line: -5.5 / O/U 237.5

Model Projection

Team Moneyline Spread Total
MEM Memphis Grizzlies
+109 +2.4 O 229.9
DAL Dallas Mavericks
-109 -2.4 U 229.9
Source: Model Updated: Feb 27, 6:45 PM

Injury-adjusted spread: -2.4

Injury-adjusted total: 229.9

Our Picks

Spread
Pass
Model: -2.4 | Edge below threshold
Total
Under (opened at 237.5)
67% Confidence

Play to 230.8

Injury Calculator

Updated Feb 28, 4:59 AM

Toggle player statuses to see how injuries affect the projected spread and total.

MavericksHome - 5 players
Klay ThompsonGRest Not SpecifiedNo impact data
Marvin Bagley IIIFNeck SprainNo impact data
Caleb MartinFBack SorenessNo impact data
Cooper FlaggFLeft Foot SprainNo impact data
P.J. WashingtonFLeft Ankle SprainNo impact data
GrizzliesAway - 5 players
Ty JeromeGLeft Thigh BruiseNo impact data
Taj GibsonFNot Injury RelatedNo impact data
Brandon ClarkeFRight Calf StrainNo impact data
Santi AldamaFRight Knee Not SpecifiedNo impact data
Cedric CowardFRight Knee SprainNo impact data

Adjusted Projection

Spread
Base model-2.4
Injury adj.0
Adjusted-2.4
Play to-3.3
Total
Base model229.9
Injury adj.0
Adjusted229.9

Recent Trends

Mavericks has struggled this season at 21-37 (14-17). The wins have been hard to come by, and the team is looking for answers on both ends of the floor. Home court advantage will be critical for any chance at pulling off an upset. It's been a difficult season for Grizzlies at 21-36 (11-17). Traveling to face Mavericks presents a significant challenge, though every game is a chance to build for the future. When these teams meet, the home team typically has the edge given the crowd advantage and familiarity factor. The team that controls tempo and limits turnovers will likely dictate the outcome of this matchup.

Matchup Edges

Mavericks

Advantages

  • Home court advantage and crowd support
  • Strong offense averaging 114.5 PPG
  • Familiarity with home venue and routines

Disadvantages

  • Sub-.500 record at 21-37 (14-17) raises concerns
  • Defense allows 117.9 PPG — a vulnerability

Grizzlies

Advantages

  • Potent offense averaging 115.4 PPG
  • Nothing to lose as the visiting team
  • Road underdog motivation — play with less pressure

Disadvantages

  • Playing on the road without home crowd support
  • Struggling with a 21-36 (11-17) record this season

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