The Dallas Mavericks are starting to show signs of cohesion after a season marked by injuries and lineup shuffles. Over the past month, there’s been a noticeable uptick in rhythm - a team slowly finding its identity.
Rookie Cooper Flagg is beginning to settle into his role, showing flashes of the promise that made him such a highly-touted prospect. And while the spotlight often shines on the young guns, it’s a seasoned veteran who’s quietly been a stabilizing force: Klay Thompson.
After a sluggish start to the season, Thompson has found his footing - and more importantly, his shot. Coming off the bench, he’s provided a steady scoring presence and a calming influence in tight stretches. His resurgence has been a key factor in the Mavericks staying competitive despite being shorthanded.
But heading into their matchup with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Thompson’s status is suddenly up in the air. The Mavericks have listed him as questionable due to left knee soreness, a development that could have real implications for a team already stretched thin.
Thompson has largely avoided the injury bug this season, which makes this a situation worth monitoring. With other key players already sidelined, his potential absence would be another hurdle for a team still trying to find consistency.
The Timberwolves, for their part, aren’t at full strength either. Star guard Anthony Edwards is also listed as questionable, adding another layer of uncertainty to a game that could have real standings implications.
The Mavericks have yet to field a fully healthy roster this season - and that reality might not change anytime soon. Anthony Davis remains out for the coming weeks, while Kyrie Irving continues his rehab from an ACL injury. The team’s full potential remains a bit of a mystery, and we may not get a clear picture until much later in the season.
At 19-27 and sitting 11th in the Western Conference, the Mavericks are on the outside looking in at the Play-In Tournament. The margin for error is slim, and every game from here on out carries weight. If they’re going to make a push, they’ll need to string together wins - with or without a full roster.
For now, all eyes are on Thompson’s knee. His presence has meant more than just points off the bench - it’s brought a sense of balance to a team that’s been anything but.
If he’s able to suit up, it could be the difference in a critical matchup. If not, the Mavericks will once again have to dig deep, lean on their depth, and hope their young core continues to rise to the occasion.