The Dallas Mavericks are hanging by a thread in the Western Conference standings, and every game from here on out is a do-or-die situation. But will Anthony Davis finally suit up?
The big man has been down and out with a left adductor strain since February 8. But the good news? He is inching closer to a return. And honestly, Dallas desperately needs a spark. But the question remains—will he make his long-awaited comeback against the Brooklyn Nets?
Is Anthony Davis Playing Tonight Against The Nets?
Davis’ potential return might finally give the Mavericks fans something to cheer about. Reports suggest that Davis is still “doubtful” for Monday night’s matchup against the Nets. It’s not a confirmation, but it’s a step in the right direction.
Davis is trying to level up in practice. He recently participated in five-on-five sessions with the G League affiliate. That’s a strong sign that he’s close, even if not for this game, then for the upcoming clashes against the New York Knicks and Orlando Magic. Head coach Jason Kidd’s lips are sealed about an exact timeline, but he’s made one thing clear: The goal is for Davis to return this season.
Before his injury, Davis had a great outing in his Mavericks debut. He was riding high with 26 points, grabbing 16 boards, and adding seven assists with three blocks. The Mavs desperately need that kind of production now. But sadly, their roster is looking like a hospital ward.
Mavericks vs. Nets Injury Report
Dallas isn’t just waiting on Davis—it is dealing with a full-blown injury crisis. The team has barely had enough healthy bodies to field a lineup at times, and the injury list is growing longer by the day. But Brooklyn is having its fair share of injuries too. Here’s how things are shaping up ahead of the game:
Dallas Mavericks
- Brandon Williams (G) – Probable (Back)
- Caleb Martin (SF) – Out (Hip)
- Anthony Davis (PF) – Questionable (Thigh)
- Daniel Gafford (C) – Out (Knee, Expected return: April 2)
- Dereck Lively II (C) – Out (Ankle, Expected return: April 2)
- Dante Exum (G) – Out (Hand fracture, Re-evaluation in four weeks)
- Olivier-Maxence Prosper (F) – Out for Season (Wrist surgery)
- Kyrie Irving (PG) – Out for Season (ACL Tear)
Brooklyn Nets
- D’Angelo Russell (G) – Doubtful (Ankle)
- Ziaire Williams (F) – Doubtful (Hamstring)
- Cam Thomas (SG) – Out (Left Hamstring)
Mavericks vs. Nets: Projected Lineups for Monday’s Matchup
If Davis is ruled out again, expect Klay Thompson, Naji Marshall, P.J. Washington, and Spencer Dinwiddie to take on heavier offensive loads. With Russell and Williams expected to return soon, the Nets will probably go with Tyrese Martin and Jalen Wilson.
Dallas Mavericks
- PG: Spencer Dinwiddie
- SG: Klay Thompson
- SF: Naji Marshall
- PF: P.J. Washington
- C: Kai Jones
Brooklyn Nets
- PG: Tyrese Martin
- SG: Keon Johnson
- SF: Jalen Wilson
- PF: Cameron Johnson
- C: Nicolas Claxton
The Mavericks are 34-37, sitting in 11th place, clinging to their Play-In Tournament dreams. If they can tread water long enough for Davis to return, they might have a shot. But every game matters, and if they keep dropping winnable ones, it might not matter when Davis comes back.