The Dallas Mavericks pulled off a gritty 114-110 win over the Los Angeles Clippers on Saturday night, and they did it without one of their biggest stars. Anthony Davis was sidelined for the second leg of a back-to-back, sitting out due to left calf injury management. Despite his absence, the Mavs showed resilience - and a little bit of star power from an unexpected source.
Now, all eyes turn to Monday night’s matchup in Denver, where the Mavericks will face the defending champion Nuggets. The good news?
Davis is currently listed as probable on the NBA’s injury report. Barring any late setbacks, the 32-year-old forward is trending toward being available.
That would be a welcome return for Dallas. Davis has played in just six games this season, but when he's on the floor, his impact is undeniable - averaging 19.3 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game.
The issue, as always, has been availability. Health has been a lingering storyline for Davis throughout his career, and the Mavericks are hoping this latest stint on the sidelines is nothing more than a precaution.
The injury report heading into Monday’s game has a few other names to keep an eye on. Cooper Flagg is dealing with a right thumb issue - he’s wearing a splint - but he’s available.
That’s significant, especially after what he just did on Saturday. The rookie erupted for a career-high 35 points, stepping confidently into the spotlight with Davis out.
It was the kind of performance that turns heads, both inside the locker room and around the league.
Klay Thompson also delivered in the win, showing flashes of the vintage sharpshooter that made him a household name. Together, Flagg and Thompson helped keep the Mavericks’ offense humming.
As for the rest of the injury list, it’s a mixed bag. PJ Washington (right ankle sprain) and Brandon Williams (left adductor strain) are both questionable.
Daniel Gafford is listed as doubtful with a right ankle issue. Meanwhile, Dereck Lively II (right foot), Kyrie Irving (recovering from left knee surgery), and Dante Exum (right knee) are all out.
Monday’s game tips off at 9 PM EST in Denver - a tough road test against a Nuggets team that doesn’t give anything away easily at home. If Davis is back in the lineup, it gives Dallas a much-needed boost in the frontcourt. But even if he’s limited or unavailable, the Mavericks showed on Saturday that they’ve got the depth and grit to hang with anyone.
Stay tuned - Davis’ official status will be confirmed closer to tip-off, and it could be a key factor in what’s shaping up to be a compelling Western Conference showdown.