The Dallas Mavericks’ rough start to the season continued on Wednesday as Cooper Flagg, Klay Thompson and the rest of the Mavs suffered a 101-99 loss to the New Orleans Pelicans. After losing six in a row to start the season, the Pelicans have now won back-to-back games, and their latest victory came on the road in Dallas’ American Airlines Center.

The Dallas Mavericks (2-6) head to Memphis Friday night for their first NBA Cup game against the Grizzlies (3-6). It is a tale of two dysfunctional teams: the Grizzlies, who attempt to make peace with star Ja Morant, and the Mavericks, who attempt to make, well, a shot.

Mavericks coach Jason Kidd provided injury updates for Anthony Davis and Dereck Lively II during his pregame news conference ahead of Wednesday’s game against the New Orleans Pelicans.

Davis suffered the injury last Wednesday, Oct. 30, in the Mavs’ 107-105 win over the Indiana Pacers. He was initially tagged with left lower leg soreness and was unable to return to the game. The 6-foot-10 forward-center ended up missing the next two contests, which Dallas both lost.

The New Mexico Lobos host the UT Arlington Mavericks in non-conference action. The teams match up Saturday for the first time this season.

In a recent interview, a former NBA All-Star claimed that LeBron James would make the Dallas Mavericks instant title favorites.

Indeed, the Mavericks and Stars are at odds over the future of the AAC, which also means their respective futures. The Mavericks allege the Stars broke an agreement involving a combined $300 million from the city and the Mavericks to renovate the AAC, contingent on the Stars signing a new lease through 2061.

Jalen Duren had 33 points and 10 rebounds, Cade Cunningham added 21 points with 18 assists and the Detroit Pistons pulled away in the fourth quarter to beat the Dallas Mavericks 122-110 in Mexico City.