Mavericks’ Jaden Hardy Cleared to Play Against Pacers After Injury

INDIANAPOLIS – Jaden Hardy, the Dallas Mavericks‘ 22-year-old guard, has been cleared to play in Wednesday’s matchup against the Indiana Pacers after missing the last seven games due to a right ankle sprain. The game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse marks a crucial moment for Hardy as he looks to contribute to a Mavericks team beleaguered by injuries.

Hardy sustained the injury during a game against the Sacramento Kings on March 3 and has since been sidelined. Currently, he averages 8.0 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game, shooting 42.8 percent from the field and 38.4 percent from three-point range.

The Mavericks have struggled without key players such as Kyrie Irving, who is recovering from left knee ACL surgery, and Anthony Davis, who has a strained left adductor. With multiple players on the injury list, including Dereck Lively II and Daniel Gafford, the team has frequently played short-handed, presenting further challenges as they approach the end of the season.

P.J. Washington, a forward for the Mavericks, noted the importance of depth on the team. “Obviously, we have a good group of guys,” Washington said. “We just got to get healthy and just keep going.”

The Mavs face the Pacers after a rough stretch, trying to balance competitive play with a lack of available roster depth. Prior to Hardy’s return, the team’s recent lineup has often included only eight or nine players, limiting tactical options and practice intensity.

Wednesday’s game also serves as a critical opportunity for the Mavericks to take revenge after losing to the Pacers earlier this season. In a previous matchup on November 4, Indiana triumphed over Dallas, 134-127, with standout performances from Myles Turner and Tyrese Haliburton.

The Pacers are coming off a thrilling 132-130 overtime victory against the Minnesota Timberwolves, where Obi Toppin scored a game-high 34 points. The Pacers, currently on a five-game home stand, will attempt to continue their momentum while also managing injuries among their regular starters.

For the Mavericks, the challenge is not only about Hardy’s performance but also adapting to their constantly changing roster as injuries have persisted. While Hardy’s return is a positive sign, the Mavericks are still on a tight timeline to secure a favorable playoff position before the regular season concludes.

The game will kick off at 6 p.m. and can be viewed on KFAA-29 or streamed via the Mavericks’ broadcasting services.