Anthony Davis nears return, upgraded to doubtful. Mavericks anticipate frontcourt reinforcements as Dereck Lively II also progresses, aiming to stabilize the rotation.
MEMPHIS — The Dallas Mavericks may soon get a long-awaited boost to their depleted frontcourt. After missing three consecutive games with left calf soreness, forward Anthony Davis has been upgraded to doubtful for Friday’s matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies. It’s the most encouraging sign yet that the All-Star is nearing a return, according to head coach Jason Kidd.
“AD is ramping up on the court and is continuing to be evaluated day to day,” Kidd said earlier this week. “He’s reported that he’s feeling better.”
Davis, who has been sidelined since late October, resumed on-court work earlier this week. His mobility and strength have improved steadily, giving the Mavericks hope that his return is close. Kidd emphasized that the organization will remain cautious as Davis progresses through final tests to ensure his long-term health.
The Mavericks have leaned heavily on forward P.J. Washington and center Daniel Gafford during Davis’ absence. Washington, who has emerged as one of the team’s most consistent players, continues to anchor Dallas’ rotation while playing across multiple positions.
“He’s been playing at an All-Star level,” Kidd said of Washington. “He’s playing the 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. He’s guarding everybody. He’s trying to help the team win. That’s who he is.”
Washington said his goal is to lead by example until the Mavericks regain full strength in the frontcourt.
“I think by just coming out and being myself and being versatile, I feel like I can play with anybody on the floor no matter who’s out there,” Washington said.
Meanwhile, Dereck Lively II is also progressing well from a right knee sprain that has kept him out since the second game of the season. Kidd confirmed that the 7-footer has been active in on-court drills and could return as early as next week.
“Lively has been participating on court and is doing well,” Kidd said. “He’s hopefully back by next week.”
The Mavericks have struggled to rebound and protect the rim without their two interior anchors, ranking near the bottom of the league in second-chance points allowed. Gafford’s return last week provided some stability, though his minutes remain capped as he continues to regain conditioning following an ankle injury sustained in training camp.
“If you press someone coming off an injury, you can put them in harm’s way,” Kidd said. “These are delicate things. If you press anybody with the luck we’ve had with injuries… I think his time will be about the same. For us to continue to add minutes, that would be great. But right now, we’re just trying to get him through the soreness and conditioning.”
As Dallas prepares for Friday’s NBA Cup opener in Memphis, the team remains without guards Kyrie Irving and Dante Exum, both recovering from knee issues. Lively’s timeline and Davis’ improving status offer the Mavericks a chance to soon stabilize their rotation after an uneven 2–6 start.
For a team that has struggled to establish rhythm, just the possibility of having Davis back on the court — even in a limited role — is a significant lift.