Zach Randolph and Dirk Nowitzki in Battle of the West

Apr 15, 2013; Dallas, TX, USA; Memphis Grizzlies power forward Zach Randolph (50) guards Dallas Mavericks power forward Dirk Nowitzki (41) during the game at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Zach Randolph Vs Dirk Nowitzki Playoff Numbers

The Memphis Grizzlies will face the Dallas Mavericks tonight at the American Airlines Center. While the Grizzlies are currently the second seed in the west, one win separates them and the Portland Trail Blazers. It’s quite plausible they’ll take on the sixth seeded Mavericks this upcoming playoffs. Last time Zach Randolph and Dirk Nowitzki battled in the playoffs was in the 2002-2003 season. A series that featured Randolph leading the Blazers to a Game 7 after being down 0-3.

Once Randolph became the Trail Blazers’ starter in Game 4, he scored in double figures every game and grabbed 10 or more rebounds in 4 out of 5 games. Nowitzki scored over forty points twice and in double figures in 6 out of 7 games. He was held to 4 points during Game 6 of the series. While some years have passed since the series, it could be an indication of how the a Grizzlies/Mavericks series might play out at the forward position.

Zach Randolph Vs Dirk Nowitzki: Regular Season

The Grizzlies and Mavericks have each won a game against the other this season. Tonight’s game in Dallas, Texas will be the third matchup. Randolph scored 18 points on 61.5 FG% along with 15 rebounds last time around. Nowtizki had 21 points on 53.8 FG% including two threes, and 6 rebounds. His three-point range opens up the floor on offense. Randolph has scored and rebounded in double figures in every game since the new year started. He has shot 57.1 FG% or better in 6 of his last 9 games. Similarly, Nowitzki has scored in double figures in all 10 of his last ten games. He’s also scored at least one three in all but one of those same games.

The Mavericks however, have lost the last two games while the Grizzlies are on a three game winning streak. Phoenix have lost the last two games relaxing their pace to overtake the Mavericks’ sixth seed, but the Spurs have won the last two. It will be a competitive race out in the Western Conference these next few months.

Grizzlies Player Notes

Mike Conley sprained his left wrist during the second half of last night’s Magic game, deciding to play through the pain. Conley was recently in a boot last week after dealing from soreness in both ankles. If Conley is hurting, Beno Udrih might play heavy minutes. Udrih had 15 points on 6-8 shooting against the Magic in 26:03 minutes last night.

Zach Randolph and Tyson Chandler are tied for 4th place for Most Rebounds Per Game. They each average 12 boards a game respectively. Fellow front court teammate Marc Gasol, is also averaging an impressive 8.2 Rebounds Per Game this season, 20th best in the league. Gasol is the Grizzlies’ top scorer with 19.1 points a game to the Mavericks’ Monte Ellis who averages 20.3 points a game.

Tony Allen did not play in tonight’s Magic game and is dealing with a sprained ankle. Jeff Green has played well, scoring in double figures the last two games on over 50 FG%. Courtney Lee had 11 points against the Magic tonight and had 12 points in the last Mavericks matchup.

Grizzlies/Magic Post Game Conference 1/26/15

Watch Coach Joerger discuss last night’s game against the magic at NBA.com.

Memphis Grizzlies Current Record:

32-12