Wednesday’s showdown between the Mavericks and Lakers is easily one of the most hyped matchups of the year. You’ve got the emotional return of Luka Doncic, the playoff race tightening, and, of course, all eyes on one man: Anthony Davis.

While the headlines scream “Luka vs. Dallas,” the Mavericks know their true key to victory lies in the big man who used to run L.A. AD may be downplaying the emotions of facing his former team, but let’s be honest—he’s going to bring everything he’s got. After all, the Mavericks’ play-in dreams (and possibly a revenge arc) rest on Anthony Davis’ shoulders.

Anthony Davis injury update and Mavericks report

So, is Anthony Davis playing tonight? As of the latest injury report, the answer looks promising. Davis is officially listed as probable, per ESPN, with a lingering adductor issue, but unless something unexpected pops up in pregame warmups, the 32-year-old forward is expected to suit up against the Lakers. Considering the magnitude of this game, it would be a shock to see him sit this one out.

The Mavericks have been treading water with injuries all season long, and Davis’s return to form couldn’t come at a better time. He dropped 27 points in their recent loss to the Clippers and has looked strong physically—something Dallas desperately needs. Especially with Kyrie Irving out for the season after a brutal torn ACL. Without Kyrie, the Mavs are leaning heavily on AD to be both the offensive focal point and the defensive anchor.

Dallas could also see a surprise boost in their backcourt. Guard Dante Exum, who’s missed the past 11 games with a hand fracture, has been upgraded to questionable for the game. If Exum plays, it could give the Mavs another shot creator to take pressure off Davis. Jaden Hardy, however, is out with a sprained ankle, and Olivier-Maxence Prosper remains sidelined for the rest of the year.

The Mavericks are currently sitting at 38-41, hanging onto the 10th seed. A win tonight not only inches them closer to home-court play-in advantage but also sends a message that this team—led by Anthony Davis—isn’t rolling over anytime soon.

The spicy side story: Big lineups, big emotions

Here’s where things get even more intriguing. The Mavericks might unleash their full three-headed frontcourt monster tonight: Anthony Davis, Daniel Gafford, and Dereck Lively II. That trio could give the Lakers fits on the glass and in the paint. Throw in PJ Washington, Klay Thompson, and Max Christie—yes, the same Max Christie L.A. fans once hyped as a future star—and you’ve got a deep, rugged squad ready to test the Lakers’ toughness.

But the real question is: How will Davis perform emotionally? He said the game wouldn’t bring out any extra fire, but knowing AD’s history with the Lakers, this one’s personal. And when Davis plays with a chip on his shoulder, you better believe the stat sheet’s going to feel it. If he goes off tonight, it might just become one of the signature performances of his Mavericks tenure.

The Doncic return may dominate the headlines, but make no mistake: Anthony Davis is the X-factor in this highly anticipated Mavericks vs. Lakers showdown. With the postseason fast approaching and pride on the line, Davis has every reason to turn up the heat. And if he’s fully healthy and locked in, this won’t just be Luka’s big night—it’ll be AD’s reminder to L.A. of what they gave up. Also, Harrison might feel the heat on him lessen.

Tonight’s game tips off at 7:30 p.m. ET. Expect drama. Expect intensity. And most importantly—expect Anthony Davis to put on a show.