The NBA regular season presents a compelling cross-conference matchup this Monday night as the struggling Dallas Mavericks travel to face the high-flying Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena. Scheduled for a 9:00 PM ET tip-off on Monday, December 1, 2025, this game pits two teams on opposite trajectories early in the 2025-26 campaign.
Team Form and Recent Performances
The Denver Nuggets, under head coach David Adelman, are enjoying a stellar start with a 14-5 record, placing them second in the Northwest Division and fourth in the Western Conference. They are riding high after a dominant 130-112 victory over the Phoenix Suns, where reigning star Nikola Jokić led the charge with 26 points, supported by Jamal Murray (24 points) and Tim Hardaway Jr. (23 points).
In contrast, the Dallas Mavericks have found the going tough, managing only 6 wins against 15 losses. They snapped a three-game skid with a narrow 114-110 win over the Los Angeles Clippers, thanks largely to a spectacular 35-point outburst from rookie sensation Cooper Flagg. Naji Marshall contributed 18 points in that crucial victory.
Injury Report and Expected Lineups
The availability of key players will significantly impact this contest. For the Nuggets, the big concern is the status of MVP Nikola Jokić, listed as day-to-day with a sprained left wrist but likely to play. They will, however, be without Aaron Gordon (hamstring), Christian Braun (ankle), and Julian Strawther (back) for an extended period.
The Mavericks' injury list is even longer. Key absences include Dereck Lively II (foot), Dante Exum (season-ending knee surgery), and Kyrie Irving (knee). Anthony Davis (calf) is expected to play, but Brandon Williams, Daniel Gafford, and P.J. Washington are all considered day-to-day and doubtful.
Expected Starting Lineups:
Denver Nuggets:
- PG - Jamal Murray
- SG - Cameron Johnson
- SF - Spencer Jones
- PF - Peyton Watson
- C - Jonas Valanciunas
Dallas Mavericks:
- PG - RJ Nembhard Jr.
- SG - Cooper Flagg
- SF - Klay Thompson
- PF - Naji Marshall
- C - Dwight Powell
Game Prediction and Viewing Details
Given the stark contrast in form and the Nuggets' strong home record—they have won six of their last nine at Ball Arena—Denver enters as the clear favourite. Their balanced attack and superior depth, even with injuries, should overpower a Mavericks side heavily reliant on rookie Cooper Flagg and dealing with a depleted roster.
For fans in India, the game will be available for streaming exclusively on Fubo. It will also be broadcast on regional sports networks KTVD and Altitude Sports. The late-night tip-off translates to an early morning Tuesday start for Indian viewers.
This matchup is more than just a game; it's a test of resilience for the young Mavericks and an opportunity for the Nuggets to solidify their position among the West's elite. All eyes will be on the potential duel between the seasoned brilliance of Jokić and the emerging talent of Flagg.
