The Dallas Mavericks, despite a massive upgrade in their roster, have had a turbulent start to the season. They had a disappointing 0-2 opening loss to the Spurs and Wizards despite Anthony Davis being in the lineup. But now they come to play the Detroit Pistons after winning 107-105 against the Pacers. But a win that should have boosted confidence instead raised new worries.

Is Anthony Davis playing tonight?

Davis played only seven minutes before leaving with a leg issue, putting his availability for tonight’s game against the Pistons in doubt. Unfortunately, Anthony Davis will not be playing tonight against the Detroit Pistons. He continues to recover from left lower leg soreness. The team clarified that the soreness is connected to bilateral Achilles tendinopathy. Despite being listed as “probable” earlier this week, Dallas has decided to hold him out as a precaution.

Even with limited minutes and amidst growing scrutiny around his presence, Davis has been one of the Mavericks’ anchors on both ends of the floor. Throughout the first five games, he has an average of 20.8 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game. That is why his absence leaves a significant gap in rim protection and inside scoring. These are the areas that have defined the Mavericks’ early identity this season. Kidd now has to rely more heavily on the offensive creativity of Cooper Flagg and PJ Washington.

The No. 1 draft pick, Cooper Flagg, has already got enough on his plate. With veterans like Davis and Irving’s looming absence, the pressure on him grows. However, in Davis’ own words, he would not want it.

“We want him to be confident, but don’t worry about the pressure, I’ll handle the pressure. Kidd will handle the pressure. When Kyrie comes back, he’ll handle the pressure,” Davis said recently while speaking to ESPN’s Tim MacMohan. But with such a heavy injury list, Flagg may have big shoes to fill even if Davis wants the teenager to take it easy.

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Mavs vs Pistons Injury report for November 1st

Mavs Injury Report :

1. Dereck Lively II is out for a knee contusion.
2. Guard Dante Exum is also listed out for knee issues.
3. Daniel Gafford is questionable for Saturday’s game.
4. D’Angelo Russell also remains questionable with a left knee contusion.

That is Dallas for you, besides Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving’s injuries, leaving them with little of their interior depth and backcourt defense. Now it is upon the younger players to step up. The team will be tested again as they try to stay above .500 without their star big man.

Pistons Injury Report :

The Detroit Pistons, meanwhile, enter tonight’s matchup after a turbulent start to the season. They’ve also gone 3-2through their first five games. Their scoring has largely revolved around Cade Cunningham, who’s averaging 22.2 points and 8.2 assists per game. Meanwhile, Jalen Duren looks to develop into one of the league’s most efficient young rebounders with 10 rebounds per night. Their defense has improved slightly compared to last season.

Injuries, however, continue to be a problem for the rebuilding Pistons. Jaden Ivey is out after undergoing an arthroscopic knee procedure on October 17 and will be re-evaluated in about four weeks. Marcus Sasser is questionable with a right hip injury heading into Saturday’s game.

Predicted Starting Fives for the Mavericks vs Pistons

Here’s a look at the projected lineups for the Dallas Mavericks vs. Detroit Pistons matchup on November 1. Detroit’s offense will continue to flow through Cade Cunningham, as the Pistons look to capitalize on Dallas’ depleted front line.

Where to Watch the Dallas Mavericks vs. Detroit Pistons Game

The Dallas Mavericks and Detroit Pistons will make NBA history tonight, as they face off in Mexico City. This is the first international regular-season game of the 2025-26 season.

Date: Friday, November 1, 2025

Time: 9:30 p.m. ET (8:30 p.m. CT)

Location: Arena CDMX, Mexico City, Mexico

Where to Watch: ESPN, Bally Sports Southwest, and NBA League Pass (international stream).

Fans can expect an electric match-up as both teams adjust to the international spotlight. With the Mavericks missing Anthony Davis and several key rotation players, the Pistons will look to capitalize on their youthful energy.

Match Preview and what to expect

The Pistons, according to us, are expected to take this game with them, given their record so far. Not just that, even Dallas’ injury line-up is another that can make things easy for the Pistons. With key players like Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving out, and Detroit playing almost a similar lineup, the matchup is most likely going to be one-sided if Cooper Flagg and Co. do not step up their game.