Well, the Mavs protected home court last night by getting an easy win against the Jazz. But tonight, the challenge is likely to be much tougher as they visit the Timberwolves’ arena for a West Finals rematch. And to make matters worse, Luka Doncic and Co. will be missing two key players in the highly awaited encounter.

As per the latest injury report, Maxi Kleber and Dante Exum will not play tonight due to injury. Sure enough, Exum has not made an appearance so far because he recently underwent a surgery after he injured his wrist during training camp. And he is expected to be out for at least three months. Meanwhile, Kleber is dealing with a right hamstring injury, which is why he was also unavailable last night.

Fortunately, Jason Kidd revealed that the Center is expected to return soon as the injury is not long-term. So, while he will not play tonight, Kleber could suit up on Thursday against the Rockets. But that does not solve the Mavs’ depth problem tonight. Well, Donte averaged 7.8 points last season and has proven to be a decent off-the-bench player. And Kleber also provides that stability inside the paint, something that the Mavs needed, especially playing on back-to-back nights.

On the other hand, the Wolves are expected to head into the game completely healthy as they do not have any player on the injury report so far. So, expect Ant-Man and Co. to come out all guns blazing seeking redemption for the West finals’ loss.

Mavericks’ and Timberwolves’ Depth Chart

With Kleber and Exum out, this is what the Mavs’ depth chart looks like:

It is possible that they go with the same starting lineup they used last night as it worked really well. Obviously, that would require Klay Thompson to continue his impressive form and have another dominant shooting performance. Even in the Jazz game, his 18-point outing gave the Mavs a good cushion to finish with an easy win.

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Meanwhile, the Wolves’ depth chart looks completely stacked with all their players healthy:

Sure enough, Edwards’ crew will have a significant size advantage over the Mavs with Kleber out. And they could use that to their advantage and upset the reigning West Champs. Whose side are you on?