In a significant boost for their struggling campaign, the Dallas Mavericks will welcome star big man Anthony Davis back to the lineup for their crucial home clash against the Philadelphia 76ers. The game tips off on January 2, 2026 (late night of January 1 Eastern Time). Davis has been sidelined for the team's last two outings due to soreness in his right adductor.
Davis Cleared to Play with Controlled Minutes
Head coach Jason Kidd confirmed that Davis has been medically cleared and is not listed on the final injury report. However, the team will adopt a cautious approach in his first game back. Kidd stated that Davis is expected to play between 30 and 34 minutes as they ease him into action rather than pushing his workload immediately.
This return is a critical development for a Mavericks squad sitting at a disappointing 12–22 record, which places them 12th in the competitive Western Conference. The team has endured a tough stretch without its primary interior presence, struggling to defend the paint and control rebounds.
Injury Timeline and Team's Depleted Roster
Anthony Davis initially picked up the injury during the Christmas Day matchup against the Golden State Warriors. He played only 11 minutes in that contest, recording 3 points and 3 rebounds before exiting early. The Mavericks' medical staff opted for a prudent rest-and-recovery strategy, holding him out of subsequent games, including a loss to the Portland Trail Blazers.
His return becomes even more vital considering the Mavericks' lengthy injury list. The team is far from full strength, with key players like Kyrie Irving (knee surgery), Dereck Lively II, and Dante Exum sidelined long-term. Veteran Klay Thompson remains a game-time decision. Davis's presence is the key to holding Dallas's frontcourt together during this crisis.
A Stern Test Against Embiid and the 76ers
Davis's comeback game presents a formidable personal challenge, as he is slated for a marquee matchup against Philadelphia's MVP candidate, Joel Embiid. In their previous encounter this season, Davis posted an impressive stat line of 24 points and 15 rebounds, though it came in a losing effort for Dallas.
The Mavericks will require a similar two-way performance from Davis to have a chance at protecting their home court and stopping their recent slide. His averaging of around 20 points and 11 rebounds this season underscores his value as the team's most reliable scorer, rebounder, and rim protector.
For a franchise desperate to steady its course heading into the new year, the return of Anthony Davis, even on a minutes restriction, provides a much-needed opportunity to reset and compete.
