The Dallas Mavericks enter tonight’s NBA Cup matchup bruised from a rough regular-season start. Their short-lived Cup run ended in a 1-2 loss, eliminating them from contention. In stark contrast, the Los Angeles Lakers not only surged to a perfect 3-0 in West Group B, but they also have Luka in his best form. Even with the Mavericks out, tonight’s game still counts toward the NBA Cup standings for L.A., and it looks like Anthony Davis is ready to face his former team. 

Are Anthony Davis, Cooper Flagg playing tonight? 

Anthony Davis will finally play in tonight’s matchup after multiple ifs and buts, per an insider. It is a major step after he missed 14 straight games with a left calf strain. In his last appearance before the injury, Davis put up 21 points, 11 rebounds, and 3 assists.

As per Shams Charania’s report, “Dallas Mavericks’ Anthony Davis – sidelined for the last month with a calf strain – plans to return to action against the Lakers in Los Angeles tonight. It’s the first time the 2020 NBA champion is facing his former team in L.A. since the February trade.” 

On the other hand, Cooper Flagg is set to play as he continues to be the brightest part of a frustrating Mavericks season. The 18-year-old No. 1 pick has been on a steady growth, averaging 15.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.1 assists. He has not missed a game this year except the road matchup against the New York Knicks earlier in the month. His availability tonight provides crucial stability. 

LA Lakers vs. Dallas Mavericks Injury Report

Los Angeles Lakers Injury Update

1. Marcus Smart is listed as questionable due to a back issue.
2. Deandre Ayton is probable with a knee concern as he continues ramping up after missing time earlier this month.

Dallas Mavericks Injury Update

Apart from Anthony Davis being listed as questionable, some major rotational pieces are in the list.

1. Dereck Lively II is out due to a foot injury and will be re-evaluated after at least three more games.
2. Dante Exum is out for the season following knee surgery.
3. Kyrie Irving remains sidelined long-term as he continues his recovery program.

Dallas’ final rotation hinges on game-time decisions for Davis, while the rest of the absences are confirmed.

Predicted Starting Lineups: Lakers vs. Mavericks

Where to Watch & Game Info

Date: Friday, November 28, 2025

Time: 10:00 PM ET

Venue: Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, California

Broadcast: The game will air on Prime Video as part of the NBA Cup group-play schedule.

Streaming: Fans can also watch through the NBA App or NBA League Pass, depending on regional blackout rules.

Game Preview & Prediction

The Mavericks are struggling. Even on the road, they are just at 1-4. The same issues have held them back all season – slow starts, scoring deficiencies, and too much pressure on Cooper Flagg. Anthony Davis’ return gives Dallas a real boost inside.

However, the team still hasn’t shown it can consistently score, whether at home or away. The Lakers, meanwhile, are at 13-4 and come in undefeated in NBA Cup play. They will look to clinch a 4th win and maintain their clean sheet for the next rounds. In every aspect, the Lakers hold the upper hand, yet the game can be interesting to watch as both Luka and AD will face their former teams.