Game Overview
The Dallas Mavericks head to Central Florida on Thursday night to take on the Orlando Magic at 7 p.m. ET. With both teams holding a 35-38 record as the regular season nears its end, each squad is scrambling to secure a better playoff position amid significant injury concerns. The Magic come off a three-game winning streak, while the Mavericks are seeking to rebound after a 15-point loss.
Orlando Magic Injury Updates
The Magic face a challenging night with key players sidelined. Cole Anthony, battling a left big toe strain, remains doubtful, having missed six of the last seven games with limited action when he did appear. Jalen Suggs is out after suffering a left knee trochlea cartilage tear, and Moe Wagner is out due to a torn ACL in his left knee. Ethan Thompson is also out and currently with the G League, further straining the team’s rotation.
Dallas Mavericks Injury Updates
The Mavericks are navigating a similarly steep injury list. Anthony Davis is questionable with a left adductor strain, having returned from a six-week absence only to sit out the subsequent game. Dante Exum is out with a left hand fracture that will keep him sidelined for at least four weeks. Daniel Gafford is dealing with a right knee sprain, while Kyrie Irving’s season is over after a torn left ACL. Dereck Lively II is managing a right ankle stress fracture, and Caleb Martin is questionable with a right hip strain. Additional setbacks include Olivier-Maxence Prosper recovering from right wrist surgery and PJ Washington out with a left ankle sprain. Brandon Williams, although dealing with low back tightness, appeared in the previous game and managed to score 22 points in 28 minutes.
Implications for the Contest
Both teams are sharpening their focus as they contend with deep injury woes and seek to maximize available talent in a crucial matchup. The Magic, having found momentum recently, are determined to leverage their current form despite missing pivotal pieces. For the Mavericks, balancing the contributions of returning players with those coping with injuries will be critical as they aim to turn their fortunes around. The clash promises to test each team’s depth and adaptability in the final stretch of the regular season.