The highly anticipated NBA clash between the Dallas Mavericks and the Chicago Bulls, scheduled for Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the United Center, has been dramatically altered by a wave of injuries on both sides. What was once pegged as a potential offensive showcase has now transformed into a critical examination of both teams' roster depth and strategic adaptability.
Injury Report Reshapes The Contest
The Dallas Mavericks enter this game severely short-handed, missing a significant portion of their core lineup. Anthony Davis is ruled out with a left finger sprain, a blow underscored by the team's stark record: they are 10-10 with him and a dismal 4-14 without. The absence of Kyrie Irving, recovering from left knee surgery, further depletes their star power. The injury list extends to include Dereck Lively II (right foot surgery), P.J. Washington (right ankle sprain), Dante Exum (right knee surgery), and Brandon Williams (illness).
This crisis forces Dallas to rely heavily on rookie sensation Cooper Flagg, averaging 21.7 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 5.3 assists, and veteran sharpshooter Klay Thompson to shoulder the offensive burden.
The Chicago Bulls are not immune to the injury bug. They will be without Josh Giddey, sidelined with a left hamstring strain. Zach Collins (right toe sprain), Noa Essengue (left shoulder surgery), and Jalen Smith (contusion) are also unavailable. A key concern is the status of Kevin Huerter, listed as questionable due to lower back tightness, which could strain their guard rotation even further.
How to Watch, Odds, and Team Analysis
The game is set to tip off at 8:00 p.m. ET (Eastern Time). Fans in local markets can catch the action on CHSN+ and KFAA, while national and international viewers can stream it via Fubo and Prime Video. According to the latest odds, the Chicago Bulls are favored by 2.5 points, with the total points over/under set at 233.5.
Both teams have struggled this season, with Chicago holding a 17-20 record and Dallas at 14-24. A common thread is their offensive capability paired with defensive woes. Chicago scores around 115 points per game but allows roughly 117. Dallas follows a similar pattern, putting up about 112 points while conceding nearly 118. The Bulls notably suffer a drop in performance without Jalen Smith, while the Mavericks' rim protection evaporates without Anthony Davis.
What Will Decide the Game?
Despite the absences, scoring is still expected. Both teams have frequently been involved in high-scoring affairs this season. Cooper Flagg's dynamic play gives the Mavericks a fighting chance to remain competitive. However, Chicago's home-court advantage and a more stable backcourt led by Coby White provide a significant edge. The matchup of Matas Buzelis against a depleted Dallas defense is another key battle to watch. The overall depth and situation tilt the scales slightly in favor of the Bulls to secure a narrow victory.
This game, far from its original promise, now stands as a testament to the NBA's gruelling schedule and the "next man up" philosophy that defines successful campaigns.
