Memphis Grizzlies vs Dallas Mavericks Picks and Predictions April 18th 2025

Ja Morant’s Ankle Could Decide the West’s Final Playoff Spot

It all comes down to this: one game, one spot, one star’s health. The Memphis Grizzlies are holding their breath heading into Friday night’s Western Conference play-in game against the Dallas Mavericks, with Ja Morant listed as a game-time decision due to an ankle injury.

The winner grabs the No. 8 seed and advances to face the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round. The loser? Season over.

Want more playoff drama? Track all odds, injuries, and movements on the NBA Odds Page.

Grizzlies in Limbo as Morant Rehab Continues

Morant went down Tuesday night against the Golden State Warriors after landing on Buddy Hield’s foot. He finished a three-point play and briefly returned, ending with 22 points—but hasn’t practiced since.

“He’ll do absolutely everything in order to play,” interim coach Tuomas Iisalo said. “If he’s physically able to do it, he will.”

Whether Morant takes the floor or not changes the dynamic completely. For updated game picks and injury analysis, visit the NBA Pick Page.

Memphis Has Momentum… Sort Of

Despite dropping 10 of their last 16 games, the Grizzlies hold a psychological edge, having won three of four regular-season meetings against Dallas—including a 132-97 win just five days ago.

For season-long team form and matchup breakdowns, check out the NBA Team Page.

Dallas Looks Different — and Dangerous

This Mavericks team isn’t the same as the one that got thrashed on Sunday. Anthony Davis dropped 27 points with 9 rebounds and 3 blocks in a 120-106 win over the Kings in Wednesday’s play-in, while Klay Thompson added five threes and 23 points.

Remember: This Dallas squad was built through deadline deals, and their chemistry is finally clicking. Explore more on roster shifts and playoff-caliber trades on the NBA Trade Deadline Blog.

Betting Guide: Who Has the Edge?

If Ja plays, Memphis is the slight favorite. If he doesn’t? Dallas likely takes control with their frontcourt size and shooting depth.

For sharp angles and projections, dig into the NBA Expert Betting Guide.

Related Reads from Around the League

Looking beyond the play-in? We’ve got you covered with the latest playoff insights:

• Western Conference Predictions
• NBA Championship Odds
• NBA MVP Futures
• NBA Most Improved Player Watch
• Southwest Division Odds

These picks can give you an edge in postseason betting markets and award races.

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Final Word: Morant or Bust?

If Ja Morant suits up, the Grizzlies get their leader and top scorer—exactly what they need in a game of this magnitude. If not, the Mavs have the momentum, the experience, and the depth to pull off a road win and snag the 8-seed.

One way or another, Friday night is do or die.

Track every bucket, turnover, and dagger three with real-time updates on the NBA Scores & Odds Dashboard.