Lakers vs. Mavericks Preview: LeBron Returns, Dallas Shorthanded in Key Western Clash
The Lakers are back at Crypto.com Arena tonight, and they’re looking for a much-needed bounce-back against a Mavericks team dealing with its own share of adversity. Both squads are coming off tough losses - the Lakers were routed by the Spurs, 136-108, while Dallas fell short against the Suns, 120-111. With each team hungry to get back in the win column, this one has all the ingredients of a gritty Western Conference battle.
Let’s start with the big news: LeBron James is set to return to the Lakers’ starting lineup after missing the last game due to arthritis in his left leg. That absence marked his 18th missed game of the season, and while it effectively ends his record-setting streak of 21 consecutive All-NBA selections - the league now requires players to appear in at least 65 games to be eligible - LeBron’s impact on the floor remains undeniable. The Lakers will be counting on his leadership and playmaking to steady the ship after two straight losses.
That San Antonio game was particularly rough. The Lakers were outpaced from the jump, and without LeBron and other key contributors, the team struggled to find rhythm on either end of the floor. But tonight offers a chance to reset - and do it at home, where the energy tends to shift in their favor.
The Mavericks, meanwhile, are limping into this one - literally. Rising star Cooper Flagg is out with a foot injury, and he’s not the only name on Dallas’ injury list. Several key rotation players are sidelined, which raises questions about the Mavericks’ depth and ability to keep pace with a Lakers team that, when healthy, can push the tempo and control the paint.
Still, Dallas has enough firepower in their starting unit to make this interesting. If they can find cohesion early and knock down shots, they’ll make the Lakers earn it. But with LeBron back in the mix, the Lakers have a real opportunity to regain some momentum and put pressure on a shorthanded opponent.
This matchup doesn’t just carry weight in the standings - it’s a measuring stick for both teams at this point in the season. For the Lakers, it’s about proving they can respond to adversity and defend their home court. For Dallas, it’s about resilience and finding ways to stay competitive despite injuries.
Expect a high-energy, physical game with playoff-like intensity. Both teams have something to prove, and with stars on the floor and roles still being defined, every possession will matter.