After missing out on the playoffs last season, the Dallas Mavericks went all-in this offseason. They rebuilt their roster and intensified their training to make a strong statement in the 2025–26 campaign. But despite all that effort, things haven’t quite clicked yet.
The Mavericks have dropped three of their first four games, which has left fans frustrated and desperate for answers. As they prepare to face the Indiana Pacers on Oct. 29, one question dominates the conversation: whether Anthony Davis will be on the court tonight.
Will Anthony Davis Suit up Against the Indiana Pacers?
There’s a glimmer of hope for Mavericks fans. For the Pacers game, Davis has been listed as “Probable” with bilateral Achilles tendinopathy. That tag typically leans toward availability, and all signs point to a strong chance he takes the floor.
So how did Davis get here? Achilles tendinopathy often stems from overuse, which is a reasonable culprit given Dallas’ long offseason buildup, the grind of a rigorous training camp, and Davis logging heavy reps right from the jump. He barely let up, and it showed.
Across four preseason tune-ups, Davis averaged 21.8 points, 9.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.2 blocks in 25.6 minutes while hitting 54.5% from the field. His best outing? A commanding 25-point, six-rebound, two-block performance in a win over Utah.
That momentum carried into the real thing. Through Dallas’ first four regular-season games, Davis has averaged 25.0 points, 11.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.8 steals, and 1.5 blocks in 35.8 minutes. If he’s active tonight, the Mavericks’ ceiling rises instantly on both ends.
Dallas’ availability picture extends beyond Davis. Also appearing on the latest injury report are:
- Brandon Williams – Questionable (Personal Reason)
- Dereck Lively II – Doubtful (Knee Issue)
- Daniel Gafford – Out (Ankle Issue)
- Dante Exum – Out (Knee Issue)
- Kyrie Irving – Out
Now, the Pacers’ side isn’t exactly rosy either.
What Is the Condition of the Indiana Pacers Squad?
Much like the Mavs, Indiana enters shorthanded. As per the latest injury report, the players on the injury list are:
- Taelon Peter – Doubtful (Groin Issue)
- Andrew Nembhard – Out (Shoulder Issue)
- Johnny Furphy – Out (Foot Issue)
- Bennedict Mathurin – Out (Toe Issue)
- Obi Toppin – Out (Hamstring Issue)
- Kam Jones – Out (Back Issue)
- T.J. McConnell – Out (Hamstring Issue)
- Tyrese Haliburton – Out for the Season
After falling to OKC in last season’s Finals, Indiana pushed through an intense summer to close the gap. The early returns, though, have been rough as they have three straight losses to the Thunder, Grizzlies, and Timberwolves.
Even with the injuries, the Pacers won’t roll over. Expect Pascal Siakam and Aaron Nesmith, who are averaging 26 and 12.7 points per game, respectively, to provide serious resistance with their two-way activity and spacing.
