As Dallas Mavericks approach the final matchup of their four-game homestand, the team continues to battle a wave of injuries that has heavily impacted their performance. With three consecutive losses weighing on their momentum, Sunday’s meeting with the Portland Trail Blazers carries added significance—yet the Mavericks’ availability concerns remain front and center.
Anthony Davis’ calf strain continues to sideline the forward
The most notable headline comes from Anthony Davis’ ongoing absence. The Mavericks forward has now missed eight straight games due to a left calf strain, and signs of improvement remain minimal. According to the reference report, NBA insider Marc Stein revealed that the decision on Davis’ return “is entirely up to the medical team led by Johann Bilsborough and his reporting to team governor Patrick Dumont.”
Despite being listed as questionable throughout recent games, Davis has now been downgraded to doubtful for Sunday’s contest. The timing raises even more concern as this matchup marks the first game of a back-to-back set.
The situation has included several twists. Last weekend, Davis pushed to return against the Washington Wizards, reportedly with Nico Harrison supporting the idea, but Patrick Dumont intervened, opting to delay Davis’ comeback until he’s fully ready. The cautious approach highlights the organization’s priority to prevent long-term aggravation of his injury.
Adding a surprising perspective, rookie Cooper Flagg—who entered the league this season—has already logged more minutes in a Dallas Mavericks uniform than Davis. If Anthony Davis misses Sunday’s game, Flagg will have appeared in the same number of total games. For a veteran with an already fragile injury history, the comparison underscores the urgency for Dallas to stabilize its lineup.
Irving, Exum, and Nembhard out
The Mavericks’ guard rotation is also depleted. Kyrie Irving remains unavailable as he continues recovery from left ACL surgery, and the team has not placed a return timeline. Dante Exum is out due to right knee injury management, while Ryan Nembhard has been sidelined with a left knee sprain—a newly reported issue.
With three guards unavailable and Anthony Davis unlikely to play, the Mavericks’ depth will be tested again.
Other player updates ahead of Sunday’s matchup
Despite the injury setbacks, Dallas does receive some encouraging news. Cooper Flagg is available despite a right thumb sprain, and P.J. Washington has been listed as probable with a left shoulder strain. Additionally, Dallas Mavericks’ center duo—Dereck Lively II and Daniel Gafford—is no longer on the injury report.
Lively, however, is expected to maintain a minutes restriction, which means Moussa Cisse will likely continue receiving rotational minutes.