The Dallas Mavericks will face off against the New Orleans Pelicans in a critical NBA Cup group stage match on Friday at 8:30 p.m. EST. Both teams are struggling in the Western Conference, with the Mavericks holding a record of 4-12 and the Pelicans at 2-13.
Mavericks vs. Pelicans: A Look at the Teams
This game marks the second encounter between the Mavericks and Pelicans this season. In their previous matchup on November 6, the Pelicans emerged victorious with a narrow 101-99 win, thanks to Saddiq Bey, who scored 22 points. The Mavericks were led by Cooper Flagg, contributing 20 points.
Current Standings and Performance
- Mavericks: 4-12 overall, 13th in the Western Conference
- Pelicans: 2-13 overall, 15th in the Western Conference
The Mavericks have struggled significantly in division play, holding an 0-4 record. They have only one win in games decided by ten or more points, with a shooting percentage of 44.6%. In contrast, the Pelicans, who are shooting at 44.2%, have also faced challenges, particularly against Western Conference rivals, where they have a 1-12 record.
Player Highlights
- P.J. Washington (Mavericks): 14.4 points, 7.7 rebounds, 2.4 assists per game
- D’Angelo Russell (Mavericks): 23.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, shooting 60.0% over the last 10 games
- Trey Murphy III (Pelicans): 19.9 points, 6.5 rebounds, 3.1 assists per game
- Derik Queen (Pelicans): 30 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists per game over the last 10 games
Recent Game Trends
In their last ten games, both teams have struggled, posting a 2-8 record. The Mavericks average 111.6 points and 46.6 rebounds per game but allow their opponents to score an average of 117.2 points. Meanwhile, the Pelicans average 109.4 points while their opponents score around 121.3 points.
Injuries Impacting Lineups
Injuries significantly affect both teams as they prepare for this matchup:
- Mavericks:
- Kyrie Irving: out (knee)
- Dante Exum: out (knee)
- Cooper Flagg: day to day (illness)
- Caleb Martin: day to day (illness)
- Anthony Davis: out (calf)
- Ryan Nembhard: out (knee)
- Pelicans:
- Karlo Matkovic: day to day (calf)
- Dejounte Murray: out (leg)
- Jordan Poole: out (knee)
This upcoming game between the Mavericks and Pelicans is pivotal for both teams as they look to improve their standings in the NBA Cup. Fans can expect an intense clash as each side battles to break their recent losing streaks.
