The Dallas Mavericks will play the second of a back-to-back on Monday night against the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Mavs have some momentum following Sunday's 139-129 win over the Toronto Raptors, however, the latest injury update is far from ideal. According to the NBA injury report, Dereck Lively II is dealing with a right knee contusion and is listed as doubtful for Monday night's game.
Lively joins four other players listed on the injury report. Kyrie Irving (left knee surgery) and Dante Exum (right knee injury management) remain out while Daniel Gafford (right ankle sprain) is doubtful and Brandon Williams (personal reasons) is questionable to play.
Anthony Davis prefers to play power forward over center, but he will likely have to start at the five against the Thunder given this latest injury update — unless Lively or Gafford ends up being upgraded before tip-off. Their doubtful statuses suggest they probably won't play on Monday night, however.
Dallas could always start Dwight Powell if absolutely necessary, but there is a much higher likelihood of AD starting at the five. If that ends up being the case, PJ Washington could slide to the four. Perhaps Jason Kidd would consider starting D'Angelo Russell at point guard and moving Cooper Flagg to the two and Klay Thompson to the three. Or, Kidd could keep Flagg and Thompson in the backcourt and start another player at the three.
The Mavs' depth gives Kidd plenty of lineup options. Nevertheless, Lively's expected absence is a huge blow for the Mavericks. Even if he was completely healthy, upsetting the Thunder would already be a challenge. Lively's injury means Dallas will have to have a tremendous all-around performance.
Further updates on the injury situation will be provided ahead of the game. Tip-off is scheduled for 8:30 PM EST.
