It’s been ten months since the Lakers acquired Luka Doncic, and he is delivering everything they imagined. In his first full season in purple and gold, he is leading the league in scoring (35.2 points per game) and powering L.A.’s blistering start at 13-4. With LeBron James finally back from his injury, the Lakers look like the sharpest team. As they enter their final NBA Cup group-stage game, one question hangs over the matchup – will Luka and LeBron suit up for the game?

Are Luka Doncic, LeBron James playing tonight? 

Good news for the Lakers Nation that  Luka Doncic is available to play. He enters the matchup in full MVP form, while averaging 35.2 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 9.2 assists in the 2025-26 campaign. He was unstoppable in their last outing as well, scoring 43 points, 13 assists, and 9 rebounds in Tuesday’s NBA Cup win against the Clippers. This was the performance that officially locked Los Angeles into the knockout round.

Only three players in the entire NBA are putting up 27+ PPG, along with 6+ RPG, AND 9+ APG this season, and Luka is one of them. He joined the list with names like Nikola Jokic and Cade Cunningham. 

Joining Luka against his former team, LeBron James is also expected to suit up tonight. In the 3 games that he logged, the 40-year-old star is averaging 17.7 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 8.7 assists. Against the Clippers, he delivered 25 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists in his 32 minutes, showing he’s regained rhythm at the perfect time. Especially now as the Lakers push their streak to five straight wins.

LA Lakers vs. Dallas Mavericks Injury Report

Los Angeles Lakers Injury Update

In their previous game against the Clippers, the Lakers were without Deandre Ayton. For tonight, that changes slightly.

1. Marcus Smart is now listed as questionable after experiencing back discomfort.
2. Deandre Ayton is considered probable as he continues progressing toward full recovery.

As both remain day-to-day, the final call will depend on how they respond in warm-ups.

Dallas Mavericks Injury Update

Dallas arrives with a far more crowded report.

1. Anthony Davis is being listed as questionable as the team evaluates whether he can return after missing the last 14 games.
2. Dereck Lively II will remain out and is expected to miss multiple games before his next assessment.
3. Dante Exum has been ruled out for the season because of his season-ending knee surgery.
4. Kyrie Irving, who continues his extended recovery from a knee injury.

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

With all due respect to Dallas, this is still the kind of matchup the Lakers should control from the start. The Mavericks currently own the worst offensive rating in the NBA (105). However, their defense is ranked third-best in the league at 110.3, so it keeps them competitive. 

Meanwhile, the Lakers have not only found their rhythm, but their game allows the stars to shine individually while also producing as a team. Austin Reaves’ career best, Luka’s top form, and LeBron’s long-awaited return have put the Lakers way ahead in the contention. The expectation leans clearly toward another Lakers victory.