The Orlando Magic went off to a flying start to the season. Thanks to Paolo Banchero. The star forward averaged 29.0 ppg with 8.8 rpg in the first five games, making a strong case for the MVP race. Unfortunately, it came to an end after the team ruled him out indefinitely with a torn oblique. So, the Florida side has to find a way to float in the points table until Banchero returns. While they have already lost a game in his absence against the Cavs, they take on the Dallas Mavericks tonight.

The Texas side, on the other hand, has a pretty healthy roster with all their three stars in perfect health. After the inclusion of Klay Thompson, the Mavs outrageously have more space on the floor, as they show early signs of their return to the NBA Finals. While they have an almost clean injury report, Luka Doncic made it to the list with an injury scare. In the last game against the Wolves, Jaden McDaniels kneed Doncic’s back of the leg, sending him to the locker room immediately.

Fortunately, Luka returned after the first half break. Speaking of the collision, he said, ” just got a little scared—a lot of injuries happening. I felt a little something, but I was fine pretty soon after.” Other than that, the Mavs have Maxi Kleber (hamstring) and Dante Exum (right wrist surgery) out of action for the next game.

Meanwhile, on the other hand, the Magic have Goga Bitadze and Wendell Carter Jr. in the Questionable category for tonight’s game. And, the latest update on Banchero’s injury revealed that the team would evaluate him after 4 to 6 weeks. Moreover, Banchero is set to travel with the team during this break. Speaking of the injury, he added, “It’s just six, something weeks. Just trying to stay engaged as much as I can and stay positive, take it one day at a time, and be ready to come back.” It’s up to the rest of the Magic roster to take care of the business until he returns.

Mavericks vs Magic: Starting lineup and depth chart

The Mavericks don’t have any changes to their standard line up as the injury report didn’t make much difference. While Kyrie and Luka have taken the aggressive role, Klay Thompson hasn’t shown his full potential yet. Notably, the ace shooter has also promised to be involved more in the defensive end as well. Let’s find out how the depth chart looks.

Confirmed starting lineup: Doncic, Irving, Thompson, Washington, Gafford

Orlando Magic’s starting lineup and depth chart

Confirmed starting lineup: da Silva, Wagner, Carter Jr., KCP, Suggs

With Paolo Banchero out of action for at least a month, Jalen Suggs and Franz Wagner should increase their offensive contributions to keep the team floating. Do you think the Magic can survive the Mavs without Banchero? Let us know in the comments.