I was somewhat on the fence about backing Dallas here but leaning that way with the Grizzlies in the second of a back-to-back. Now I'm on the Mavs for sure as Memphis will be without Jaren Jackson Jr. (rest) and probably double-double machine Jonas Valanciunas, who is doubtful. Grayson Allen is out too. Dallas is without Kristaps Porzingis but should be able to win on the road. The Mavs have been better away this year and they still have the motivation of avoiding the play-in tournament.

The Grizzlies haven’t been playing well of late, posting a 4-5 record over their last nine games. Their four wins came against bad teams in the Pelicans, Raptors, Timberwolves and Magic, so they weren’t exactly anything to write home about, either. The Mavericks, on the other hand, have won seven of their last eight games as they look to avoid a spot in the play-in tournament. Add in their stellar 21-13 record on the road and I like them to cover.

The Grizzlies clinched a play-in playoff spot with Monday’s five-point victory over the Pelicans. That should boost the Grizzlies confidence heading into Tuesday’s back-to-back scenario against the Mavericks. Expect a gutty effort from the Grizzlies, who will aim to end the Mavericks' four-game win streak.