Will Kristaps Porzingis Play Tonight? Dallas Mavericks vs Miami Heat: Injury Updates, Expected Lineups, and Game Prediction

The Dallas Mavericks will host their New Year’s matchup against the Miami Heat. The two sides will lock horns at 7 PM ET on Friday night. Additionally, both sides have had an average start to the season.

While the Heat are 2-2 in their first 4 games, the Mavericks have won just 1 of their initial 4 games. The major reason behind this slow start for the Mavs is the absence of their second star Kristaps Porzingis. In his absence, too much burden is falling on the shoulders of Luka Doncic.

Can they turn their fortunes against the Heat? Well, first let’s take a look at the expected lineups and injury updates for both sides.

Miami Heat injury updates and predicted lineup

After splitting the doubleheader against the Milwaukee Bucks, the Heat proved once again how great their team is. In fact, they did it without their superstar Jimmy Butler. Speaking of Butler, he traveled with the team to Dallas. But as of now, he is listed probable for the game.

Along with Butler, Gabe Vincent and Kelly Olynyk are also listed probable in the recent injury report. Keeping the injuries in mind, the expected lineup for the Miami Heat is Avery Bradley (G), Tyler Herro (G), Duncan Robinson (F), Andre Iguodala (F), and Bam Adebayo (C).

Dallas Mavericks injury updates and predicted lineup

The Dallas Mavericks’ fans will be happy to hear that star-forward Kristaps Porzingis will most likely return for their game against the Heat. According to their head coach Rick Carlisle, the Latvian had a great practice session, meaning he shouldn’t be sidelined for the Friday night matchup.

Apart from Porzingis, there is no new injury update for the Mavs. So their lineup should look like Luka Doncic (G), Josh Richardson (G), Tim Hardaway Jr. (F), Kristaps Porzingis (F), and Dwight Powell (C).

Game prediction

Both the sides are expected to be at their 100% on Friday night with their stars returning from injuries. However, Porzingis will most likely be on minute restrictions to avoid re-injuring himself. Considering that, the Miami Heat should take the dub in this clash.