Key Highlights
- The Dallas Mavericks and LA Clippers are both struggling with poor records in the early part of the 2025-26 NBA season.
- Austin Veazey reports that both teams have combined for a record of 6-17, with one win in November out of thirteen games played.
- Key players on the Mavericks are missing due to injuries, including Anthony Davis and Dereck Lively II, while Kyrie Irving has yet to play this season.
- The LA Clippers have seen their defensive performance decline significantly, ranking 26th in defensive rating and allowing the most three-pointers in the league.
Struggling Records Mirror Each Other
The Dallas Mavericks are facing a challenging start to the 2025-26 season, having lost six of their last seven games. Their upcoming match against the LA Clippers is an opportunity to turn things around, but it comes with significant challenges for both teams. The Mavericks have a record of 3-9 so far, while the Clippers are at 3-8.
Both teams are in similar struggles as they aim to find their footing amidst a turbulent start. This game on Friday, November 14th, is part of the NBA Cup series and carries some importance for playoff considerations, although neither team is expected to make a significant run towards a Wild Card spot.
Player Injuries Impact Both Teams
The Mavericks are dealing with injuries that have affected key players. Anthony Davis has missed seven games due to a low-grade calf strain, and Dereck Lively II has been out for nine games with a knee sprain. Additionally, P.J.
Washington left Wednesday’s game with a shoulder injury. These absences can significantly impact team dynamics and performance.
On the Clippers side, key players like Kyrie Irving have yet to make their debut this season due to an ongoing issue that has not been fully disclosed. The absence of playmaking and sharpshooting is notable, especially considering the Mavericks are last in three-pointers made and 29th in three-point percentage.
Clash of Defense and Offense
The LA Clippers have seen their defensive identity change this season, with the departure of Bradley Beal and Brook Lopez. While James Harden continues to perform at a high level, averaging 23.4 PPG and 8.9 APG, other key players like Kawhi Leonard are sidelined due to injury. Ivica Zubac has improved as a center, contributing solidly with an average of 10.5 PPG.
The Mavericks will face a significant challenge in stopping the Clippers’ three-point shooting while also trying to generate their own offense.
The game is set for Friday, November 14th, at American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas, starting at 7:30 p.m. CST.
Game Details and Odds
The matchup between the Mavericks and Clippers will air on NBA League Pass, KFAA, MavsTV, and FanDuel Sports Network – SoCal. The spread is set with the Mavericks as the underdogs at +4, while the moneyline favors the Clippers (-166) over the Mavericks (+140). The over/under is 219.5.
As the season progresses, fans and analysts will be closely watching how these teams evolve and whether they can overcome their current struggles to improve their records and competitiveness in the league.
