After a major blunder last season, the Dallas Mavericks have worked hard this offseason to bring back stability to their core. With Cooper Flagg in, the Mavs will wish to sit somewhere on the top of the table this season, which gives them an easy playoff ticket. And as they head for their first 2025-26 season on Wednesday night against the San Antonio Spurs, all eyes are on their star-studded lineup. Dallas is entering the game with some uncertainty, but all eyes are on Anthony Davis’ availability.

Anthony Davis is not injured and will be suiting up for the Dallas Mavericks in tonight’s season opener against the San Antonio Spurs. After all the noise against Davis last season, let’s not forget is a proven superstar who won a championship with the Lakers in 2020. His championship experience can instantly elevate Dallas’ ceiling. For Davis, though, it was nothing short of a challenge to adjust to a new environment after the controversial trade between the Mavs and the Lakers earlier this year.

Davis’ offseason was navigated through eye surgery, which required him to wear protective goggles, and a heavy focus on conditioning. Yet he emerged as Dallas’ preseason standout, scoring 25 and 18 points respectively in the last two games against the Jazz and Lakers. But despite Davis’ presence, Dallas will miss a few key players.

The Mavericks have been without Kyrie Irving for some time, and he will not be returning before January. Dante Exum is managing a knee issue and is reported to be out in Wednesday’s season opener against the Spurs, as per Grant Afseth of DallasHoopsJournal.com reports. Then, Daniel Gafford is also listed as doubtful with a right ankle sprain. With these absences, the Mavericks will lean on Davis more, along with Lively and P.J. Washington, to anchor the team as they face the Spurs in the season opener.

Predicted starting lineups for Dallas Mavericks vs. Spurs

The Mavericks have a brand new roster for the most part. The Spurs are not far behind. Both teams carry a promising rookie, notably the Spurs’ Stephen Castle, who won Rookie of the Year last season. The Mavs have Cooper Flagg, the number one draft pick in the offseason. With the 2025-26 NBA season tipping off, both the Dallas Mavericks and San Antonio Spurs are set to showcase their new-look rosters. Here’s a look at the anticipated starting lineups for both teams:

Dallas Mavericks:

San Antonio Spurs:

With both teams aiming to make a statement in the season opener, fans can expect an exciting and competitive game.

Where to watch the Dallas Mavericks vs. Spurs matchup live

The stage is set for a thrilling opener as Dallas hosts San Antonio. Expect explosive plays, giving a glimpse of what to expect from both teams this year. Here’s everything you need to know to watch the action live –

• Date: Wednesday, October 22, 2025

• Time: 9:30 p.m. ET / 6:30 p.m. PT

• Where: American Airlines Center, Dallas, Texas

• TV: ESPN

• Streaming: Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, NBA League Pass

With an at-home game in Dallas, American Airlines Center, the Mavericks will look to start the season strong. The Spurs will surely test Dallas’ depth and resilience. While Dallas has the home-court advantage and the preseason momentum of 3-1, the matchup promises to be tightly contested, making it a must-watch for fans.