The Dallas Mavericks already look lethal as we are quarterway through the season. The runners-up from the 2024 NBA Finals made a significant change in their roster, bringing in an ace shooting guard to an already world-class backcourt. And now, the Mavs’ are reaping dividends. In the last 11 games, the team won 10 of them and they also hold a 6-game winning streak. Amid this dream run, they take on the Toronto Raptors, who are amidst a hot-and-cool run, tonight.

Amid this successful stretch, the team has faced a few setbacks in the form of injuries. Especially, the team’s cornerstone, Luka Doncic, missed 5 games in a row with a wrist injury and Klay Thompson missed four games in a row with a foot injury. In their absence, it was Kyrie Irving, who spearheaded the team with consistent effort on the offensive end. Nevertheless, he also had an injury scare amid this stretch, suffering a shoulder soreness.

Importantly, Uncle Drew also missed a game against the Memphis Grizzlies. However, the former NBA Champ is off the injury trouble, heading into the Toronto game. In fact, none of the three guards have injury woes. But the team sure does have three players listed on the report. Dante Exum, who is yet to make his debut in the season, underwent wrist surgery and can be expected to lace up in the coming months.

Apart from that, the team has ruled out Naji Marshall, citing a respiratory illness, and listed Jaden Hardy in the doubtful category with an ankle sprain. On the other hand, the Raptors have a pretty long injury report.

• Davion Mitchell (Hip) – Questionable
• Kelly Olynyk (Back) – Out
• Jakob Poeltl (Illness) – Questionable
• D.J. Carton (ankle) -Out
• Immanuel Quickley (Elbow) -Out
• Bruce Brown (Knee) – Out

Kyrie Irving & C0 – Starting Lineup and Depth Chart

Currently holding the 3rd seed in the West, the Mavs are not far away from claiming the top seed. Moreover, the team managed to stun the Western Conference in the postseason despite their not-so-flashy run in the regular season. But this season, the Mavs have begun to make noise early in the season. Given the injury history of Luka and Kai, Jason Kidd should be careful about how he utilizes his central players.

Moreover, Kyrie Irving seemed ready right from the start of the season. Heading into the regular season right after losing in the Finals, he said, “When you’re not the winning team, it’s a long summer. It’s a lot of scrutiny (and) criticism you have to deal with… when you’re not the winning team, it’s a long summer. It’s a lot of scrutiny (and) criticism you have to deal with.” Above all, the star has also got a fresh cut in the last game. So, can we take it as a sign that the Kai is indeed locked in this season? Let us know in the comments.