Despite rallying from a 22-point deficit during its sixth game in nine nights, Dallas was unable to secure back-to-back wins against Memphis. The Mavericks split their home-at-home series after suffering a 96-91 loss against the Grizzlies.

Dallas (1-5) remained persistent throughout the contest despite shooting 34 percent from the field. Trailing 54-35 at halftime, Mavs guard Wesley Matthews infused the struggling offense with renewed energy through four three-point baskets in the third quarter.

4️⃣ third-quarter threes for Wesley! ? pic.twitter.com/XA2bm18BQ5

— Dallas Mavericks (@dallasmavs) October 27, 2017

A trio of made free throws from J.J. Barea propelled Dallas to an 86-84 lead in the fourth quarter. Unfortunately, the Grizzlies would respond on the ensuing possession. Mike Conley’s three-pointer with 3:31 ultimately served as the final thwart to a Mavs comeback.

Harrison Barnes notched a double-double in the loss (22 points, 11 rebounds) while leading all Mavs players in scoring. Wes Matthews added 18 points, shooting 4-for-8 from three and 6-for-12 from the field. Dirk Nowitzki notched 14 points and 7 rebounds in the loss. Dallas rookie Dennis Smith Jr. totaled 9 points, 9 assists, 3 rebounds, 2 steals and a very impressive block on Conley. Check it out below.

Dennis denies it! ✋#MFFL pic.twitter.com/JBSWUNfUDy

— Dallas Mavericks (@dallasmavs) October 27, 2017

Rather than shy away from a rough shooting performance — Smith shot 4-for-14 from the field — the hyper-athlete found other ways to contribute positively and was not alone in his offensive struggles. Matthews proved to be the only Maverick to shoot at least 50 percent from the field (Nowitzki, 5-for-13; Noel, 2-for-5; Barnes, 9-for-20; Powell, 1-for-3; Kleber, 2-for-8; Mejri, 1-for-3; Barea, 2-for-10; Ferrell, 0-for-6).

Dallas returns to action at 7:30 p.m. Friday to host the Philadelphia 76ers (1-4) before receiving a day of rest.