The regular season is set to begin in less than two weeks. While preseason scores do not really matter, what matters is the onset of the teams’ performance. Every preseason game is a glimpse into every team’s potential, a preview of sorts for the roster to gel, and the Dallas Mavericks seem to have mastered the chemistry. They are coming off a convincing 106-89 win over the defending champions, the OKC Thunder, in their first pre-season game on October 6, 2025!

Now, their focus turns to the Charlotte Hornets, who suffered two back-to-back losses against the Thunder. The Mavericks’ roster looks promising, and Anthony Davis definitely made an impression in his brief preseason run, but will he be on the floor tonight?

Is Anthony Davis playing tonight?

Anthony Davis is expected to suit up for the Dallas Mavericks in their second preseason game against the Charlotte Hornets tonight. The 6-foot-10 forward appears to be in excellent shape, full of energy, and back to his usual self. Fans got a glimpse of his form during the Mavericks’ Fan Jam at the American Airlines Center on Friday, where Davis looked loose, motivated, and fully engaged as part of Team Blue’s starting lineup.

Tonight’s rotation is likely to mirror the one used in the preseason opener against OKC earlier this week. The decision signals that head coach Jason Kidd is focused on building early chemistry among his core group. That approach was evident in Dallas’ first outing, as almost everyone was given minutes. So, responding to the chance, Mavs players impressed with their energy and size advantage, shooting 42% against OKC’s 30.9%, and it wasn’t all.

Star rookie Cooper Flagg made an encouraging debut, recording 10 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists in just 14 minutes of play. Davis was impressive, too. He made an immediate impact in just 16 minutes of play. The former Lakers star scored seven points on 3-of-5 shooting, including a smooth three-pointer in his two attempts. His strong defensive instincts were on show, too, with 2 blocks. And as they gear up to face the Hornets, fans are excited to see their team play again. But where will they get to watch the game?

Where to watch the Mavericks vs the Hornets preseason game

The Mavericks-Hornets preseason matchup is set to tip off at the American Airlines Center at 8:30 p.m. ET (5:30 p.m. PT). Fans can catch the live broadcast on KFAA or stream the game via NBA League Pass for international viewers, and it will also be available on FuboTV.

Both teams enter this game with fresh offseason moves shaping their lineups. The Charlotte Hornets have added Pat Connaughton, Spencer Dinwiddie, Mason Plumlee, and Collin Sexton, aiming to complement LaMelo Ball and Miller as they seek a rebound after a 19‑63 record and second-last seed in the past season. For the Mavericks, too, this is the time to integrate their new-look roster.

D’Angelo Russell and Dennis Smith Jr. are expected to fill gaps from Kyrie Irving’s ACL absence. Particularly, Flagg is expected to earn significant minutes, maybe even a starting role. But Daniel Gafford is currently injured. He suffered a sprained ankle on the first day of training camp in Vancouver and is expected to miss 2-3 weeks, according to Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd. This suggests he may not be available for the Mavericks’ preseason game.

Expected rotations and limited minutes for star players when the two teams lock horns tonight. While both sides look to give their best, the Mavs look like a clear favorite unless they let loose their defense and play easy on the offense. But whom do you support? Do let us know in the comments.