Memphis Grizzlies: Studs and Duds from loss to Dallas Mavericks

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SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA – DECEMBER 17: Jaren Jackson Jr. #13 of the Memphis Grizzlies warms up before the game against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center on December 17, 2021 in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images) /

Duds in loss to the Mavericks

The blame can’t be directed to individuals since the team as a collective struggled throughout the game. However, the bench and Jaren Jackson Jr. didn’t perform to the standard they need to for the Grizzlies to be successful.

Grizzlies bench

When looking at the productivity between these two teams it’s evident where the big discrepancy was. The Mavericks bench outscored Memphis’ bench 41-26. Dallas was able to apply pressure at all times especially when Ja Morant wasn’t on the court.

Memphis hasn’t had to deal with faulty bench play during their win streak, but tonight every single player off the bench was in the negative when it comes to plus/minus.

The energy that the second unit usually provides wasn’t there to help provide the assistance needed to the starters. Meanwhile, the Mavericks were doing the majority of their heavy-hitting when Luka Doncic was on the bench.

Jaren Jackson Jr.

During this win streak, Jaren has been coming into his own and dominating on both sides of the ball. That wasn’t the case against the Mavericks, as he finished with only eight points on 29 percent shooting from the field.

In a game where the Mavericks were without Kristaps Porzingis, this was the perfect opportunity for Jackson to assert himself early and provide an inside-out element for the Grizzlies. Instead, he was very passive and settled with jumpers, going 0-6 from three.

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