It isn’t a clash of the Titans, but it is a matchup between two teams trying to climb out of early-season trouble. On Friday, the struggling New Orleans Pelicans travel to Dallas for their first NBA Cup points against the Dallas Mavericks. Both sides need a win to steady their seasons, but for the Pelicans, much of the focus will center on the health of the Pelicans’ superstar forward.

Is Zion Williamson playing tonight against the Dallas Mavericks?

Yes, Zion Williamson is scheduled to play against the Dallas Mavericks. The New Orleans Pelicans star forward is not listed on the injury report for Friday’s game. This comes after he successfully returned to the lineup on Wednesday against the Denver Nuggets following an eight-game absence due to a left hamstring strain.

Pelicans coach James Borrego provided a positive update on Williamson’s condition, confirming he was a full participant in Thursday’s practice. Borrego noted that Williamson even arrived early to get in some extra work. The coach stated that a decision on whether Williamson plays in the second game of a back-to-back on Saturday is still to be determined, but his status for Friday is confirmed.

In Zion’s return game against the Nuggets, Williamson played 29 minutes and finished with 14 points on 6 of 13 shooting with nil three-pointers. He added six rebounds, five assists, one steal, and one block in a steady all-around performance. His availability is a major boost for the Pelicans team, which has lost seven consecutive games.

New Orleans Pelicans vs Dallas Mavericks injury report for Nov. 21

The New Orleans Pelicans will be without several key players for this contest. Jordan Poole remains out with a left quad strain and will not suit up against the Mavericks. Big man Karlo Matkovic is also ruled out as he continues to recover from a right calf strain. Dejounte Murray is out long-term as he rehabs from a right Achilles rupture.

The Dallas Mavericks have their own significant injury woes to contend with. Dante Exum is out for the season after the team announced he will undergo knee surgery. Anthony Davis is sidelined with a calf injury and will be re-evaluated in seven to ten days. Star guard Kyrie Irving remains out as he recovers from a knee injury, though reports indicate his rehab is progressing well. On the other hand, Ryan Nembhard is also out of the game.

Predicted lineups for Pelicans vs Mavs for Nov. 21

With both teams dealing with multiple absences, the starting lineups will feature several role players stepping into larger roles. The Pelicans will build around their returning star, while the Mavericks will rely on their rookie sensation.

Where to watch the Pelicans vs the Mavs game?

Fans can catch this NBA Cup group stage game on Friday night.

Date: Friday, November 21, 2025

Time: 8:30 PM Eastern Time

Where to Watch: The game will be broadcast locally on Gulf Coast Sports Network and KFAA. It will also be available for streaming on NBA League Pass and Fubo.

Game preview and what to expect

This game features two teams at the bottom of the Western Conference standings seeking any positive momentum. The Pelicans enter with a 2-13 record and are riding a seven-game losing streak. The Mavericks are only slightly better at 4-12 and have lost four of their last five contests. Both teams are also winless in the NBA Cup tournament, adding extra importance to this matchup.

Historically, the Mavericks hold a distinct advantage in the overall series with a 57-30 record against the Pelicans. However, in their most recent meeting on November 5, it was New Orleans who came away with a 101-99 victory on Dallas’s home court. The Pelicans will look to replicate that performance with Williamson back in the lineup. Given the Mavericks’ significant injury absences and their poor home record, the Pelicans are positioned to secure a narrow road victory and snap their losing streak.