Can the Dallas Mavericks turn their season around without their star players? Tonight’s matchup against the Brooklyn Nets might just be the turning point—or another setback. But here’s where it gets interesting: with Anthony Davis sidelined due to a hand injury, all eyes are on rookie sensation Cooper Flagg to step up and prove his mettle. Will he rise to the occasion, or will the Mavs’ struggles continue? Tune in to find out!
The Dallas Mavericks (14-25) host the Brooklyn Nets on Monday, January 12, at 7:30 p.m. at the American Airlines Center, and you won’t want to miss this one. For those wondering how to catch the action, KFAA has you covered. Head over to their website (https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/nba/mavericks/dallas-mavericks-2025-2026-schedule-watch-on-kfaa/287-6ff5030c-7288-48a6-89b7-c415c9314c98) for a detailed guide on how to ensure the clearest broadcast signal. And this is the part most people miss: the Mavs are 10-10 at home, but they’re sitting at the bottom of the Western Conference with a 3-point shooting percentage of just 33.8%. Ouch.
This is the second time these teams face off this season. In their last meeting on December 13, the Mavericks edged out the Nets 119-111, thanks to Anthony Davis’ 24-point performance. Michael Porter Jr. led the Nets with 34 points, but he’s out for rest tonight, adding another layer of intrigue. Controversial question: Can the Mavs replicate their success without Davis, or will the Nets capitalize on Dallas’ weakened lineup?
Cooper Flagg, despite the team’s rocky start, has been a bright spot in his rookie campaign. Averaging 18.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 4.2 assists while shooting 47.7% from the field, he’s proving why he’s one to watch. But with key players like Davis, Dereck Lively II, and Kyrie Irving out due to injuries, the pressure is on the young star to carry the team.
Here’s the full injury report for both teams:
Dallas Mavericks:
- Anthony Davis: Out (Hand)
- Dereck Lively II: Out for season (Foot)
- Kyrie Irving: Out (Knee)
- Dante Exum: Out for season (Knee)
- PJ Washington: Day-to-day (Ankle)
- Brandon Williams: Day-to-day (Heel)
- Moussa Cisse: Day-to-day (Shoulder)
Brooklyn Nets:
- Haywood Highsmith: Out (Knee)
- Michael Porter Jr.: Out (Rest)
- Drake Powell: Day-to-day (Knee)
- Ben Saraf: Day-to-day (Knee)
- Ziaire Williams: Day-to-day (Illness)
- E.J. Liddell: Day-to-day (Knee)
Looking ahead, the Mavericks have a busy schedule with games against the Denver Nuggets, Utah Jazz (twice), and New York Knicks coming up. Will they find their rhythm, or will injuries continue to derail their season? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—do you think the Mavs can pull off a win tonight, or is this season a lost cause? And here’s a thought: Could Flagg’s performance tonight be a game-changer for his career? Discuss below!
