Will Anthony Davis Play Tonight Against Portland?
The Dallas Mavericks (12-21) enter this contest under immense pressure. The 2025-2026 season has been a rollercoaster for Jason Kidd's squad, primarily due to a roster that resembles a revolving door of medical updates. The biggest question mark surrounds superstar Anthony Davis, who has been battling a right adductor strain since Christmas Day. While initially feared to be a long term absence, Davis has been upgraded to "questionable," providing a glimmer of hope for a team desperate to end a six game road losing streak.
The Mavericks are also adjusting to life without their primary backcourt. Kyrie Irving remains sidelined following knee surgery, and Dereck Lively II is out for the season with a foot injury. In their absence, the spotlight has shifted entirely to rookie sensation Cooper Flagg. The No. 1 overall pick has lived up to the hype, averaging 25 points and 6 rebounds over his last 20 games. Flagg’s defensive growth has been the silver lining for Dallas, as he has ramped up his shot blocking significantly throughout December.
Portland’s Resurgence: The Deni Avdija Show
On the other side of the court, the Portland Trail Blazers (13-19) are finding their identity through adversity. Despite being without cornerstones like Damian Lillard and Jerami Grant both dealing with Achilles issues Portland recently pulled off a stunning 114-108 upset against the Celtics.
The catalyst for Portland’s recent form has been Deni Avdija. The versatile forward has taken over playmaking duties with Scoot Henderson and Jrue Holiday sidelined, averaging a staggering 26.5 points, 8 rebounds, and 9.5 assists over his last stretch. Paired with the explosive scoring of Shaedon Sharpe, who is pouring in 23.5 points per game this month, the Blazers' offense has become surprisingly potent despite the lack of veteran depth.
Key Matchups and Tactical Outlook
The game will likely be decided in the paint. If Anthony Davis is cleared to play, his matchup against Portland's rookie center Donovan Clingan will be pivotal. Clingan has been a rebounding machine, averaging over 10 boards per game, and his ability to contest Flagg and Davis at the rim will determine if Portland can maintain their home court advantage.
For Dallas to win, they must improve their perimeter defense. The Mavericks have struggled to defend the three point line on the road, allowing opponents to shoot over 36 percent. With Portland’s Toumani Camara finding his rhythm from deep, Dallas cannot afford to leave shooters open while collapsing on Avdija’s drives.
"We have to play with a sense of urgency," Coach Jason Kidd remarked following their recent loss in Sacramento. "It doesn't matter who is in the jersey; we have to execute for 48 minutes."
Prediction: A Close Finish at the Moda Center
Oddsmakers have the Trail Blazers as slight 2.5-point favorites, reflecting their recent home success and the uncertainty surrounding the Mavericks' health. However, with Cooper Flagg playing at an All Star level and the potential return of Anthony Davis, the Mavericks have the talent to steal a victory.
Expect a high-scoring affair. Both teams have scoring differentials that suggest defensive lapses, and the over/under of 232.5 points reflects two squads that prefer a fast paced transition game. If Dallas can limit their turnovers a recurring issue during this road trip they may just end 2025 on a high note.
Key Takeaways for Tonight
Mavs Status: Anthony Davis is a game time decision; Kyrie Irving and Dereck Lively II are out.
Blazers Status: Deni Avdija and Shaedon Sharpe are the primary scoring options; Grant and Lillard remain out.
The Streak: Dallas has lost 6 straight road games and is 3-11 away from home this season.
Rookie Watch: Cooper Flagg leads Dallas in scoring and defensive impact since the start of December.
The atmosphere at the Moda Center is expected to be electric as Portland fans hope to see their young core continue their giant killing ways. For the Mavericks, a win tonight isn't just about the standings it's about proving they can survive the injury bug.