The stage is set for an emotionally charged NBA showdown as Luka Doncic prepares to face his former franchise, the Dallas Mavericks, in what promises to be one of the most dramatic games of the early season. The Los Angeles Lakers will host the Mavericks at Crypto.com Arena on November 28, 2025, with all eyes on the Slovenian superstar who has taken the league by storm since his blockbuster trade.
Doncic's Dominant Form and Clear Bill of Health
After speculation about his availability, the Lakers have confirmed that Luka Doncic is fully cleared to play with no injury restrictions. This comes as welcome news for Lakers fans who have watched the MVP candidate dominate opponents throughout the early season.
Since being traded to the Lakers in February for Anthony Davis and draft assets, Doncic has been nothing short of spectacular. The 26-year-old guard is averaging league-best 35.2 points per game alongside 8.8 rebounds and 9.2 assists through 13 appearances. His recent performance against the Clippers, where he dropped 43 points and dished out 13 assists, further solidified his position as a frontrunner for the MVP award.
The Lakers enter this contest riding a five-game winning streak and boasting an impressive 13-4 record, largely thanks to Doncic's offensive brilliance. His reunion with the Mavericks adds an emotional layer to an already crucial NBA Cup matchup.
Team Injury Reports and Roster Updates
The Lakers approach this game with nearly full strength. Alongside Doncic, the team will feature Austin Reaves, who is enjoying a breakout season with 27.9 points per game, and veteran superstar LeBron James, who has contributed 17.7 points across his three appearances this season.
Center Deandre Ayton has also been cleared to play after concerns about a knee contusion. The only significant absence for the Lakers will be Marcus Smart, who is listed as doubtful due to back spasms.
Meanwhile, the Dallas Mavericks face significant challenges with multiple key players sidelined. Kyrie Irving remains out with a knee injury, while Dereck Lively II is unavailable due to foot issues. Dante Exum has been ruled out for the entire season, creating additional roster difficulties for the struggling franchise.
Struggling Mavericks Face Uphill Battle
The Mavericks enter this contest with a disappointing 5-14 record, having failed to benefit from the Doncic-Davis trade as initially hoped. The team will rely heavily on rookie Cooper Flagg, who is averaging 15.9 points but now faces the daunting task of defending against his former teammate Doncic.
There is some positive news for Dallas as Anthony Davis is expected to return to the lineup after missing 14 games with a calf strain. Davis brings impressive averages of 20.8 points and 10.2 rebounds, though questions remain about whether even his presence can slow down the Lakers' offensive machine.
This matchup represents more than just another regular season game. With the NBA Cup stakes, the emotional weight of Doncic facing his former team, and the contrasting fortunes of both franchises since the trade, this primetime showdown has all the ingredients of a classic NBA narrative.
