The Dallas Mavericks are navigating uncharted waters, grappling with a challenging 10-game losing streak as they prepare to face last year's finalists, the Indiana Pacers. Both teams are dealing with significant injury woes, leveling the playing field in an unexpected way.
For the Mavericks, the absence of rookie sensation Cooper Flagg is a significant blow. Flagg, sidelined by a left midfoot sprain, has been a standout performer this season, averaging 20.4 points and 6.6 rebounds. His absence was felt in their recent 122-111 loss to Minnesota, and with Kyrie Irving and Dereck Lively II also out, Dallas has struggled defensively, allowing an average of 117.4 points per game.
The Pacers, on the other hand, might miss Pascal Siakam, who is listed as questionable due to left hamstring injury management. Siakam has been a key player for Indiana, leading the team with 23.7 points and 6.7 rebounds per game. His potential absence, coupled with Tyrese Haliburton being out for the season with an Achilles tear, puts Indiana in a similar predicament.
Here's a rundown of the injury report for both teams:
Mavericks:
- Cooper Flagg: Out (left midfoot sprain)
- Kyrie Irving: Out (left knee surgery)
- Dereck Lively II: Out (right foot surgery)
- Max Christie: Questionable (left ankle sprain)
- Daniel Gafford: Questionable (right ankle injury management)
- Caleb Martin: Probable (left ankle sprain)
- Moussa Cisse: Doubtful (two-way)
- Ryan Nembhard: Doubtful (two-way)
- Miles Kelly: Probable (two-way)
Pacers:
- Pascal Siakam: Questionable (left hamstring injury management)
- Andrew Nembhard: Questionable (low back injury management)
- T.J.
McConnell: Questionable (right hamstring soreness)
- Kam Jones: Questionable (low back soreness)
- Micah Potter: Questionable (left ankle sprain)
- Quenton Jackson: Questionable (two-way)
- Taelon Peter: Questionable (two-way)
- Tyrese Haliburton: Out (right Achilles tear)
- Aaron Nesmith: Out (right ankle sprain)
- Obi Toppin: Out (right foot stress fracture)
- Johnny Furphy: Out (ACL tear)
- Ivica Zubac: Out (left ankle sprain)
With both squads facing a slew of injuries, this matchup is shaping up to be a test of depth and resilience. The Mavericks and Pacers will need their bench players to step up and fill the gaps left by their absent stars. As they battle through these challenges, fans can expect an intriguing contest where strategy and adaptability will be key.