The Dallas Mavericks haven’t been at their best in recent games, losing their last three consecutively. With the hope of snapping their losing streak on Thursday’s show, the Mavericks will host the Philadelphia 76ers. A lot of that narrative depends on Anthony Davis’ availability. The big man has struggled to stay fit this season, and therefore, his availability could swing the tide in favor of the Mavericks.

They are currently languishing in a 12th spot in the Western Conference with an underwhelming 12-22 record. On the other hand, the Philadelphia 76ers are in a much better state with a 17-14 record as they are placed seventh in the Eastern Conference. However, they haven’t been in any great rhythm, winning only three out of their last seven games. They won their last contest 139-136 against the Memphis Grizzlies.

Is Anthony Davis playing tonight against the Philadelphia 76ers?

Fortunately, for the Dallas Mavericks, Anthony Davis is off the injury list for Thursday’s game. He is expected to play against the Sixers after missing the last two games due to adductor soreness. His return will severely boost the chances of the hosts, who desperately need a win to snap their losing streak.

Anthony Davis will look to shut the outside noise with his performance, as he has been regularly mentioned in the trade rumors. He was in great rhythm before his recent injury. In four games before his adductor issue, he averaged 26.3 points, 13.8 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.3 blocks, and 1.0 steals over 35.5 minutes per game.

As per the NBA Insider Ron Harold Jr, Davis is expected to play for 30-35 minutes on Thursday. He will straightaway slot in the starting lineup for the Mavericks.

Top Stories

Kyrie Irving Breaks Silence After Injury Return Update Emerges

Prayers Pour In For Napheesa Collier After Unfortunate Health Announcement

Michael Jordan Could Have Repaired Scottie Pippen Relationship if He Wanted To: Former Teammate

Is Austin Reaves Dating YouTuber SteveWillDoIt’s Ex-Girlfriend? Fact Checking Viral Claim

Is Giannis Antetokounmpo Playing Tonight? Bucks vs Hornets Latest Injury Report (Jan 2)

Dallas Mavericks vs Philadelphia 76ers Injury Report

With Anthony Davis’ participation confirmed, let us take a deeper dive into the injury report of both teams ahead of the East-West showdown. Both teams have a few players out, but the Sixers have some concern around one of their star players, which could directly dictate the result on Thursday.

Dallas Mavericks Injury Report

The biggest relief for the Dallas Mavericks is the availability of their star player, Anthony Davis, who missed the last two games, which resulted in their defeat. However, with him cleared for participation, the Mavericks are in a much stronger position.

Apart from AD, veteran guard Kyrie Irving remains on the sidelines with a knee injury. He is out indefinitely for now as there’s no timeline for his return. Meanwhile, Dante Exum’s season has been cut short following a season-ending knee injury, and Derek Lively II is another player who underwent surgery this Sunday and is on the path to recovery.

Philadelphia 76ers Injury Report

Firstly, there are doubts over big man Joel Embiid‘s participation as he is probable for Thursday’s game. He is managing injuries to his ankle and knee, but considering he played against the Memphis Grizzlies in the last game and recorded 34 points in their 139-136 overtime win, there’s a chance that he will eventually suit up against the Mavericks.

Embiid participated in the shoot around with his Sixers teammates, increasing his chances of playing on Thursday as per NBA insider Grant Afseth. If Embiid plays, his tussle with Anthony Davis will be exciting. They will face each other for the first time since November 2023. They have played each other in eight NBA games.

Other than Embiid, Kelly Oubre Jr and Trendon Watford are the regular absentees for Philadelphia. While Oubre is out with a knee concern, Watford is recovering from adductor issues.

Dallas Mavericks vs Philadelphia 76ers Predicted Lineups

Based on the latest injury reports, let us take a look at the predicted lineup of both teams for Thursday’s showdown.

The Sixers will rely on Embiid’s availability as he is a massive player for them. In case he fails to turn up, then the visitors will turn to Adem Bona. While Tyrese Maxey and Paul George also continue to play crucial roles for the Philadelphia 76ers.

On the other hand, the Mavs will rely on superstar rookie Cooper Flagg, who has been extremely consistent this season as Anthony Davis returns to action. It promises to be an exciting contest between two teams. Who will finish on top?