Dallas Mavericks return to home court Thursday night for an interconference showdown against the Philadelphia 76ers, with injury updates playing a central role in shaping the matchup. As Dallas looks to halt recent struggles, the availability of key personnel provides a mixed outlook ahead of the clash.
Anthony Davis set for return
The most significant development for Dallas is the return of Anthony Davis, who is off the injury report after missing the last two games due to right adductor soreness.
Davis’ absence was felt during the Mavericks’ recent road trip, but his clearance to play offers a timely boost as Dallas prepares to face one of the league’s most physical frontcourts.
With Davis back in the lineup, Dallas Mavericks regain a vital two-way presence capable of impacting scoring, rebounding, and rim protection. His return is expected to stabilize a rotation that has been stretched thin by multiple injuries.
Dallas Mavericks still shorthanded
Despite Davis’ availability, Dallas will continue without several important contributors. Kyrie Irving, Dante Exum, and Dereck Lively II have all been ruled out, remaining sidelined as they recover from their respective injuries. The absences leave Dallas with limited flexibility, particularly in the backcourt and interior rotation.
Irving’s continued unavailability places additional pressure on Dallas’ secondary scorers and ball-handlers, while Lively’s absence affects rim protection and rebounding depth. Exum’s injury further narrows guard options, forcing Dallas to rely on rotation players to shoulder heavier workloads.
Recent form and momentum
Dallas Mavericks enters the matchup with a 12-22 record, coming off a road loss to the Portland Trail Blazers. In that game, Max Christie delivered a standout performance with 25 points and five assists, while Brandon Williams contributed 22 points and four assists off the bench.
Those performances highlighted Dallas’ depth but also underscored the challenges of competing without several regular starters.
Philadelphia, meanwhile, arrives with a 17-14 record after an overtime road win against the Memphis Grizzlies. Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey combined for dominant scoring outings in that victory, setting up a demanding test for Dallas’ defense.