The dawn of 2026 brings a high-stakes NBA showdown, far from a routine early-January fixture. The Philadelphia 76ers launch their new year campaign with a challenging road game against the Dallas Mavericks. This marquee clash is scheduled for Thursday, January 1, 2026, at the American Airlines Center in Dallas.
Game Schedule and How to Watch
The opening tip-off for this prime-time encounter is set for 8:30 PM Eastern Time (7:30 PM local time in Dallas). Fans across the United States can catch the action live on NBA TV and regional networks NBC Sports Philadelphia and KFAA. For streaming, the game will be available on NBA League Pass and the Fubo platform.
Injury Reports: A Tale of Two Rosters
The narrative of this game is heavily influenced by the availability of key players on both sides.
Philadelphia 76ers Injury Update
The Sixers are approaching this game in relatively good health, but with notable caveats. Star center Joel Embiid is listed as probable, dealing with a right ankle sprain and ongoing management of his right knee. His presence on the court, even in a minutes-restricted role, dramatically alters the dynamics of the game. However, Kelly Oubre Jr. (left knee) and Trendon Watford (left adductor) remain sidelined. With Embiid's minutes likely managed, the offensive burden will fall heavily on the shoulders of Tyrese Maxey and Paul George.
Dallas Mavericks Injury Woes
Dallas faces a much steeper challenge, navigating a series of significant long-term absences. The team will be without its star guard Kyrie Irving, who is out following left knee surgery. The backcourt is further depleted with Dante Exum also recovering from right knee surgery. A major blow comes in the frontcourt, where promising center Dereck Lively II is out for the entire season with a right foot injury. This leaves the Mavericks critically short-handed, especially at the center position, forcing them to rely on small-ball lineups and increased minutes from their remaining rotation players.
Betting Outlook and Matchup Analysis
Sportsbooks anticipate a tightly contested affair, giving a slight edge to the visiting 76ers. The point spread sees Philadelphia favored by 1 to 2.5 points, indicating expectations of a one-possession game. The moneyline odds reflect this small advantage for the Sixers. The total points line is set around 230.5 to 231.5, suggesting a steady scoring pace is anticipated.
Philadelphia enters the game with a 17-14 record, looking to build momentum. Dallas, struggling at 12-22, aims to snap a three-game losing streak. The key for the Mavericks will be controlling the game's tempo and leveraging their shooting to create scoring bursts. If they can keep the pace high, they can compete. However, if the game slows down and becomes a half-court battle, Philadelphia's advantage, particularly inside with Embiid, could prove decisive.
This January 1st matchup is more than just a calendar turn; it's a test of depth and strategy for two teams navigating very different injury landscapes at the start of 2026.
