DALLAS, TEXAS — The Dallas Mavericks’ season has hit a rough patch as injuries to key players threaten their momentum. Veteran guard Kyrie Irving will be sidelined for 1-2 weeks due to a back injury, while Luka Dončić’s return remains uncertain after suffering a calf strain on Christmas Day against the Minnesota Timberwolves
In their absence, the Mavericks’ starting lineup offers an opportunity for others to step up. Quentin Grimes has emerged as a bright spot, posting a season-high 26 points, two rebounds, and six assists in a recent loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Dallas, however, is in the midst of a five-game losing streak, dropping them from fourth to sixth in the Western Conference standings. Now 20-16, the Mavericks will host the Los Angeles Lakers (20-15) on Wednesday in a pivotal matchup between two injury-riddled teams.
The Lakers have also been hit hard by injuries, with Gabe Vincent, Cam Reddish, and Jalen Hood-Schifino unavailable. Anthony Davis and LeBron James are listed as probable but remain the driving force for Los Angeles, combining for an average of 50 points and 19.4 rebounds per game.
The Mavericks face a tough stretch ahead, with upcoming games against the Portland Trail Blazers on Thursday and a back-to-back against the Denver Nuggets over the weekend. Without Irving and Dončić’s playmaking, Dallas will need a collective effort to stop their slide and stay competitive in a tightening playoff race.
