3 teams Dallas Mavericks want to face in the 1st round of the 2023 NBA Playoffs

Dallas Mavericks would be eager to face the Grizzlies in 1st round of the 2023 NBA Playoffs

The young Grizzlies have been mostly bark with little bite so far in the playoffs. They were quickly dispatched by the Utah Jazz in the first round in 2021. Memphis defeated Minnesota in the first round last year before falling in six games to the eventual champion Warriors. The Grizzlies will do a lot of talking, but can they back it up on the court?

In the one game Luka Doncic has played against the Grizzlies this season, Dallas won 137-96 as number 77 went for a 32-point double-double. It won’t be that easy in the playoffs, but the Mavericks certainly would not be scared of facing the talented Grizzlies.

Fans may get a playoff preview on Monday night in Memphis. The Grizzlies are pushing to finish second in the Western Conference, and Dallas needs every win. Ja Morant is not expected to play, but he should return in short order. Memphis is certainly dangerous, but every team is in the postseason.

The Grizzlies' lack of experience and middle-of-the-pack offense are reasons why Dallas wants this matchup. The Mavericks' defense has been awful this season, but the Grizzlies' offense can get slowed down. They are just 16th in offensive rating, which would open the door for the Mavs' high-powered offense to outscore them and advance.