Mavericks’ Caleb Martin Uncertain for Thursday’s Clash with Magic

ORLANDO, Fla. –– Dallas Mavericks forward Caleb Martin is listed as questionable for Thursday’s game against the Orlando Magic, which tips off at 7 p.m. ET on NBA TV. Martin has been sidelined for the last five games due to a right hip strain. His participation will be determined closer to game time.

This season, Martin has struggled with injuries, managing just five appearances since the All-Star break. His limited availability has significantly reduced his fantasy basketball value across league formats.

If Martin cannot play, the Mavericks are expected to turn to Brandon Williams and Spencer Dinwiddie for increased minutes. Williams played on Tuesday, scoring 22 points in 28 minutes against the New York Knicks.

Orlando enters the game on a three-game winning streak, following a tough matchup against the Charlotte Hornets. The Magic currently hold a record of 35-38 with only nine games remaining in the regular season, while the Mavericks match that record after their recent loss to New York.

In addition to Martin’s status, the matchup also raises concerns about other players’ health. The Magic’s Cole Anthony has missed six of the last seven games due to a left big toe strain. Anthony briefly returned to action but exited after only six minutes with the same injury.

Meanwhile, the Mavericks’ Anthony Davis returned from a six-week absence on Monday but did not play against the Knicks. Davis is recovering from a left adductor strain. Additionally, Exum is expected to miss four weeks due to a left hand fracture, while Gafford and Lively are in recovery from knee sprain and foot stress fractures, respectively, without a clear timeline for their returns.

With their playoff hopes on the line, both teams will be monitoring their player’s health closely ahead of their pivotal matchup on Thursday.