Mavericks, Grizzlies Compete for Playoff Spot Amid Injury Concerns

The Dallas Mavericks and Memphis Grizzlies will face off on Friday night for the final Western Conference playoff spot, with the winner advancing to play the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Mavericks are coming off a win over the Sacramento Kings, led by strong performances from Anthony Davis and Klay Thompson, while the Grizzlies lost to the Golden State Warriors in their previous game. Both teams are dealing with significant injuries: Dallas will be without Kyrie Irving and Olivier-Maxence Prosper, but Anthony Davis and Brandon Williams are probable to play despite recent ailments. Memphis star Ja Morant is questionable with an ankle injury, and the team will also be missing Brandon Clarke and Jaylen Wells. If Morant is limited or unable to play, the Grizzlies may rely more heavily on Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr. The outcome of the game could hinge on the health and performance of these key players.