Western Conference Showdown Transformed by Injury Woes
The Denver Nuggets travel to face the Dallas Mavericks on January 14, 2026, in a Western Conference game that looks dramatically different from expectations just a month ago. Both franchises enter this matchup missing multiple core players, transforming this contest into a night where rotations and bench contributions matter far more than star power.
Denver's Steady Play Faces Dallas's Home Challenge
Denver arrives in Dallas playing surprisingly steady basketball despite their mounting injury concerns. The team has maintained competitive form through adversity. Meanwhile, the Mavericks attempt to hold ground on their home court while leaning heavily on younger, less experienced players. With so many regular starters unavailable, this game will likely be decided by fundamental effort, rebounding battles, and which team's bench holds up longer under pressure.
Extensive Injury Reports Reshape Both Rosters
The Denver Nuggets face a particularly long injury list. Nikola Jokic remains out with a left knee bone bruise. Jamal Murray continues sidelined by a left ankle sprain, while Aaron Gordon deals with a right hamstring strain. Christian Braun carries doubtful status due to an ankle issue. Denver also misses Cameron Johnson with a right knee bone bruise and Jonas Valanciunas with a right calf strain. Spencer Jones represents a game-time decision because of left ankle inflammation.
The Dallas Mavericks confront similar roster challenges. Anthony Davis sits out with a left finger sprain. Kyrie Irving, Dante Exum, and Dereck Lively II all remain absent following various surgeries. P.J. Washington carries questionable status with a right ankle sprain. Max Christie appears doubtful due to illness, while Brandon Williams also holds questionable designation. Moussa Cisse and Miles Kelly face availability questions due to G League status considerations.
How to Watch the Game
The contest tips off at 7:30 PM CT from the American Airlines Center in Dallas. National television coverage airs on TNT, with local broadcasting available on KFAA. Streaming options include NBA League Pass, the TNT application, YouTube TV, and Sling TV services.
Recent Form and Statistical Comparison
Denver enters this matchup with three consecutive victories and a solid 7-3 record over their last ten games. Dallas has struggled recently, posting a 3-7 mark across the same ten-game span. However, the Mavericks have witnessed steady growth from rookie standout Cooper Flagg, who provides a bright spot during this challenging period.
Statistical comparisons over the last ten games reveal interesting patterns:
- Denver Nuggets: Average 115.2 points per game while allowing 110.8 points to opponents, with a 6-4 against-the-spread record
- Dallas Mavericks: Average 112.1 points per game while allowing 118.3 points to opponents, with a 4-6 against-the-spread record
What to Expect in Tonight's Matchup
Denver holds a small edge entering this contest based on recent form and consistency. Dallas will require strong minutes from rookie Cooper Flagg and meaningful contributions from P.J. Washington if he clears medical evaluation. A final score near 117-109 favoring the Nuggets appears realistic, with the game likely decided in late moments by execution and decision-making rather than individual star performances.
The extensive injury reports fundamentally alter this Western Conference showdown, creating opportunities for role players and bench contributors to make significant impacts. Both coaching staffs face strategic challenges in managing rotations and maximizing available talent under difficult circumstances.
