The Dallas Mavericks are set to face the LA Lakers at the Arena on Wednesday, with the game scheduled to tip off at 8:30 p.m. ET. The nationally televised match can be watched on ABC, Spectrum SportsNet, and Bally Sports SW-DAL.
This encounter marks the third meeting between the Lakers and Mavericks this season, with the Mavericks emerging victorious in the previous two matchups as part of the NBA’s 10-game slate schedule.
The Mavericks, positioned fifth in the Western Conference with a 24-17 record, have won six of their last 10 games. In their recent victory against the New Orleans Pelicans, Luka Doncic was absent due to a sore ankle, but Kyrie Irving and Tim Hardaway Jr. stepped up, combining for 83 points.
On the other hand, the Lakers find themselves in the 10th spot in the West with a 20-21 record. They have experienced a dip in form, losing six of their last 10 games. However, they secured a win in their last outing against the Oklahoma City Thunder, with Anthony Davis and LeBron James contributing 52 points, 22 rebounds, and 11 assists.
In terms of injuries, the Mavericks have Dante Exum out with a heel injury, while Grant Williams, Derrick Jones Jr., and Luka Doncic are available. For the Lakers, Gabe Vincent and Cam Reddish are sidelined, while LeBron James and Anthony Davis are expected to play.
The predicted starting lineups for the Mavericks include Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving, Tim Hardaway Jr., Derrick Jones Jr., and Dereck Lively II. The Lakers’ lineup is projected to feature D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, Taurean Prince, LeBron James, and Anthony Davis.
Key matchups to watch include the battle between Luka Doncic and LeBron James, both renowned for their offensive prowess and basketball IQ. Another intriguing matchup is Kyrie Irving versus Anthony Davis, with Irving’s exceptional ball-handling skills pitted against Davis’ defensive prowess and versatility.
The clash promises an exciting showdown between two talented teams, with individual matchups likely to play a crucial role in determining the outcome.