The Dallas Mavericks are waiting to face the Milwaukee Bucks tonight in American Airlines Center at a heavy disadvantage. The first game was comfortably taken by the Bucks on November 18th with a final score of 132-125. While it looks like the result might be a sweep for Milwaukee, the home team is also looking to recover from a lopsided 121-87 defeat by the Minnesota Timberwolves last Wednesday. Star players Luka Doncic, dealing with a sprained right ankle, and Kyrie Irving, sidelined due to a sprained right thumb, were absent in that game.

The Bucks are playing with all their starters intact while Mavericks are pissing key pieces of their roster ahead of the matchup. So for Mavs fans and the organization, the most pertinent question is the availability of their superstar duo, Kai and Luka.

The injury report isn’t looking on the up for the Mavs. Luka will be playing however, Irving (Right thumb sprain) along with Derrick Jones Jr. (Left wrist sprain), Dereck Lively II (Nasal fracture), Dante Exum (Right knee soreness) and Maxi Kleber (Nasal fracture) will not be taking part in the matchup. Luka alone has to face an entirely healthy Bucks with their starters: Brook Lopez, Damian Lillard, and Giannis Antetokounmpo who show signs of slowing down.

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Irving was absent from his fifth consecutive game against the Timberwolves on Wednesday, having sustained a right thumb sprain during the match against the Boston Celtics on Jan. 22. Although the Mavericks have not officially disclosed his return date, signs indicate that he is likely to be back in action soon.

This was evident, as he was seen participating in pre-game shooting with his team before their game against Minnesota. So, how will the matchup look like with Luka vs ‘Freaktime’?

Dallas Mavericks vs. Bucks: A closer look

The Mavericks are anticipating Irving’s return to prevent a significant decline in their standing while aiming to secure their position in the playoff race. Right now Dallas sags behind as the 8th seed in the West with 26 wins comfortably making the play-in tournament. Milwaukee, on the other hand, is the second seed in the Eastern Conference, and with their recent coaching change with Doc Rivers, things seem to be looking up for them.

The Bucks’ injury report only features backup shooting guard Andre Jackson Jr., who is listed as ‘questionable’ and will be a game-time decision. This makes them a heavy favorite to win. Luka can pull out a magical performance but it’s less likely for him to completely take over as he, too, is just returning from an injury. Who do think will win?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

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