The NBA stage is set for a gripping encounter as the Utah Jazz prepare to host the Dallas Mavericks in a regular-season showdown. This much-anticipated match will take place on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at 9:00 pm ET at the iconic Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. Both teams, despite their storied histories, are navigating challenging seasons, making this clash a critical battle for momentum.
When and Where to Watch the NBA Showdown
Fans across the globe can tune in to watch the Utah Jazz take on the Dallas Mavericks. The game will be broadcast live on regional networks KJZZ, Jazz+, and KFAA. For viewers preferring online streaming, the match will be available on Fubo and Prime Video, ensuring no one misses a moment of the action from the Delta Center.
Team Form and Injury Concerns
The season's statistics paint a picture of struggle for both franchises. The Dallas Mavericks have managed to secure 14 victories in 37 games, but they enter this contest plagued by a significant injury list. The Utah Jazz have fared slightly worse, winning only 12 of their 36 games. A major concern for the Jazz is the questionable status of their star player, Kevin Love, whose participation could be a game-time decision.
Expected Starting Lineups
Utah Jazz: The home team is likely to field a lineup featuring Keyonte George at point guard, Brice Sensabaugh at shooting guard, with Lauri Markkanen and Isaiah Collier in the forward positions. Kyle Filipowski is expected to anchor the center spot.
Dallas Mavericks: The visitors' expected starters include Cooper Flagg and Max Christie in the guard positions. The frontcourt is projected to be led by Anthony Davis, Daniel Gafford, and veteran Klay Thompson.
Detailed Injury Report
The availability of key players will significantly impact the game's dynamics.
Utah Jazz Injury Report:
- Ace Bailey (QUESTIONABLE - left hip)
- Jusuf Nurkic (QUESTIONABLE - toe)
- Georges Niang (OUT - foot)
- Walker Kessler (OUT - shoulder)
Dallas Mavericks Injury Report:
- Brandon Williams (QUESTIONABLE - heel)
- P.J. Washington (QUESTIONABLE - ankle)
- Dereck Lively II (OUT - foot)
- Kyrie Irving (OUT - knee)
- Dante Exum (OUT - knee)
Game Prediction and Key Players to Watch
Predicting a winner in this matchup is complex due to both teams' similar records and injury woes. The Utah Jazz will heavily rely on the offensive firepower of Keyonte George, who averages 24.3 points and 6.9 assists per game, and Lauri Markkanen, a powerhouse averaging 27.8 points and 7.0 rebounds this season. Their performance could be the deciding factor for the Jazz.
The Dallas Mavericks, despite having two more wins, face an uphill battle with a depleted roster. The combined experience and skill of Cooper Flagg, Anthony Davis, and Klay Thompson provide them with a fighting chance. However, the sheer volume of injuries, particularly the absence of Kyrie Irving, may prove too big a hurdle to overcome on the road. The game is likely to be a closely contested affair, with the Jazz potentially having a slight edge due to home-court advantage and a marginally healthier roster.
