Yet another East vs. West showdown awaits around the corner. The Dallas Mavericks welcome the Indiana Pacers this Monday at the American Airlines Center. Luka Doncic and his squad aim to secure another home victory. The Pacers, battling injuries, face a tough challenge to keep up. They can’t afford to slip to a 2-5 record. Can they hold back the Mavericks?

So far, the Mavericks have lost just two games. One against the Phoenix Suns and the other against the Houston Rockets. But looking at the stats so far, Tyrese Haliburton & Co. have reason to worry. This is because not just Luka Doncic or Kyrie Irving, but their latest recruit Klay Thompson is on a roll for Dallas. Captain Klay is back to redefining his gameplay. He’s shooting three-pointers like never before. At the same time, Doncic is dominating the court for the Mavs with an average of 28 PPG

Meanwhile, the Indiana Pacers are yet to find their rhythm in the league this season. Unlike the Mavericks, Pascal Siakam and Co. have won only two games so far. Their highlight so far: defeating the reigning champions the Celtics 135-132 in a fierce game. But now that, the Pacers will be up against Dallas on Monday, it becomes important to understand the injury situation of both parties. So, let’s find out.

Dallas Mavericks injury report

Well, Jason Kidd will be a happy man with his healthy roster. None of the Mavericks stars will be sidelined for the game against Indiana. Except, of course, Dante Exum who will be out until at least January 2025. All thanks to his serious right wrist injury that led to surgery. The shooting guard will have to remain an audience for the team and focus mainly on his rehab and recovery.

Meanwhile, the Dallas Maverick forward Maxi Kleber‘s hamstring injury has ruled him out of Monday’s game. Head coach Jason Kidd stated Kleber (hamstring) is doing well in his recovery but wouldn’t speak on whether the center would return during the team’s current homestand. Moreover, the German hooper missed the game against Orlando Magic and will most likely miss the game against Tyrese Haliburton and Co.

Indiana Pacers injury report

A not very delightful sight to behold for the Pacers. Four key players have been ruled out for the battle in the American Airlines Center. First, James Wiseman will inevitably miss the entire 2024/25 season following his left Achilles surgery on Thursday. The center has now been joined by another crucial player Isaiah Jackson. He suffered a torn Achilles while going all-out against the Pelicans on Friday. Meanwhile, Aaron Nesmith‘s ankle injury has already sidelined him against the Mavericks. And Andrew Nembhard‘s status remains questionable due to his knee issues.

Dallas Mavericks depth chart

Indiana Pacers depth chart

This matchup promises intensity on both sides. The Mavericks hold the advantage with a healthy squad and star power. Meanwhile, the Pacers are struggling to fill gaps left by injuries. With Doncic, Irving, and Thompson in peak form, Dallas looks primed for another win. Indiana must dig deep to avoid a further slide. Fans can expect a thrilling showdown at the American Airlines Center.