Mavericks Face Injury Woes Before Critical Game Against Heat

DALLAS — The Dallas Mavericks (29-26) will host the Miami Heat (25-27) on Thursday at 7:30 p.m. following a hard-fought victory over the Golden State Warriors. This matchup marks the Mavericks’ final game before the All-Star break, but they are grappling with multiple injuries to star players.

Guard Kyrie Irving, who scored 42 points in Wednesday’s 111-107 win, is listed as questionable due to right shoulder soreness. Along with Irving, Klay Thompson (foot) and Dante Exum (Achilles) are also on the injury report as questionable. Meanwhile, the Mavericks have ruled out Anthony Davis, Daniel Gafford, Dereck Lively II, Caleb Martin, Dwight Powell, and P.J. Washington for Thursday’s contest.

“It’s a tough spot for us, especially right before the break,” said Mavericks coach Jason Kidd. “But we have players who can step up if needed.” Should Irving, Thompson, and Exum all miss the game, Dallas will rely heavily on Spencer Dinwiddie, Jaden Hardy, and newcomer Max Christie to carry the offensive load.

On the other side, the Miami Heat are also facing player unavailability due to health concerns. Significant contributors Duncan Robinson and Terry Rozier are ruled out, while Andrew Wiggins is also sidelined due to a stomach illness. Bam Adebayo is questionable with a left knee contusion but could potentially play.

This game is particularly important for both squads as they head into the All-Star break, looking to gain momentum. “We need this win to build confidence before the week off,” said Heat’s Adebayo. “Both teams are dealing with challenges; it’ll be interesting to see how it plays out.”

As the matchup approaches, the Mavericks are keen to make a statement against the Heat, highlighted by their injury challenges. The game promises to be a tight contest loaded with implications for each team’s playoff aspirations.