Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Mavericks dealt yet another injury blow vs. Grizzlies

Originally posted on NBA on ClutchPoints
By Richard Pereira, ClutchPoints | Last updated Nov 7, 2025 10:38 PM ET

The Dallas Mavericks lost a key frontcourt player during Friday night’s matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies. That player happened to be veteran center Daniel Gafford.

Gafford is going through his seventh year in the NBA, his third with the Mavericks. However, this season has seen him be in and out of the team’s rotation due to minor injuries keeping him on the sidelines. Prior to Friday’s game, he’s only appeared in three of the squad’s seven contests.

Gafford’s injury woes struck again during the matchup against the Grizzlies, per reporter Joey Mistretta. He sustained soreness on his right ankle, which will have him miss the remainder of the contest.

“Daniel Gafford (right ankle soreness) will not return to the Grizzlies-Mavericks game,” Mistretta wrote.

Gafford ended his night after 12 minutes of action. He only recorded one rebound during his time on the court.

How Mavericks played against Grizzlies

Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

Adding insult to injury following Daniel Gafford’s exit from the game, the Mavericks lost 118-104 to the Grizzlies during NBA Cup play.

Dallas’ defense was not where it needed to be throughout the contest. They gave up 34 points in the first quarter and 40 in the second period, showing how they were unable to contain Memphis’ offense during the first half. While the defense was better in the second half, it was too late as the Grizzlies created all the distance they needed to secure the home victory.

Perimeter shooting and free throws made the difference in this matchup. The Grizzlies prevailed in both categories by making 13 out of 35 3-pointers and converting 23 shots at the line. It wasn’t the same for the Mavericks, who only knocked down 10 triples out of 39 attempts while making just 10 free throws.

Six players scored in double-digits for Dallas. Max Christie led the team in scoring with 18 points on 7-of-12 shooting from the field, including 4-of-7 from beyond the arc. Naji Marshall came next with 16 points and seven rebounds, PJ Washington had 14 points and six rebounds, Cooper Flagg put up 12 points and six rebounds, while Brandon Williams provided 11 points.

The Mavericks will look to bounce back in their next matchup, remaining on the road. They face the Washington Wizards on Nov. 8 at 7 p.m. ET.

This article first appeared on NBA on ClutchPoints and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: