Dallas Mavericks Anthony Davis and Philadelphia 76ers Joel Embiid (Image via Getty) The calendar turns to 2026 with a game that carries more weight than a typical early-January matchup. The Philadelphia 76ers open the new year on the road against the Dallas Mavericks on January 1 at American Airlines Center. Injuries on both sides shape how this game is expected to unfold, affecting lineups, matchups, and the betting outlook.Philadelphia comes in with fewer concerns, but one name still defines the night. Joel Embiid is listed as probable, and his availability changes everything for Dallas. The Mavericks, meanwhile, remain short-handed across the roster, especially in the backcourt and at center. That imbalance sets up a game where execution, rotations, and timing matter as much as star talent.
Philadelphia 76ers vs Dallas Mavericks game details and broadcast information (January 1, 2026)
The Philadelphia 76ers begin their 2026 schedule with a prime-time road test in Dallas. Tip-off is set for 8:30 p.m. ET (7:30 p.m. local time). • Date: Thursday, January 1, 2026 • Time: 8:30 p.m. ET • Venue: American Airlines Center, Dallas • TV (U.S.): NBA TV, NBC Sports Philadelphia, KFAA (Dallas) • Streaming: NBA League Pass and Fubo
Philadelphia 76ers vs Dallas Mavericks Injury report and availability (January 1, 2026)
Philadelphia 76ers injury report
Philadelphia is close to full strength, but there are still limits. Embiid is listed as probable with a right ankle sprain and ongoing right knee management and is expected to play. Kelly Oubre Jr. remains out with a left knee hyperextension and sprain. Trendon Watford is sidelined with a left adductor strain and is not expected back until early January. MarJon Beauchamp and Johni Broome are listed as doubtful or unavailable due to G League assignments.Even if Embiid suits up, the Sixers are expected to manage his minutes. Tyrese Maxey and Paul George are likely to handle extended stretches as the primary offensive options.
Dallas Mavericks injury report
Dallas continues to deal with long-term absences. Kyrie Irving is out following left knee surgery. Dante Exum remains sidelined after right knee surgery. Dereck Lively II is out for the season with a right foot injury. Miles Kelly is listed as doubtful, and Moussa Cisse’s status remains uncertain as a possible depth option in the frontcourt.With those pieces missing, Dallas must rely on limited big-man depth and increased responsibility for its remaining rotation players.
Philadelphia 76ers vs Dallas Mavericks Betting odds and totals (January 1, 2026)
The betting market sees this as a close game, with a slight lean toward Philadelphia.MarketLine range (approx.)Notes Spread 76ers -1 to -2.5 One-possession game expected Moneyline 76ers -135 / Mavs +110 Small edge to Philadelphia Total points 230.5–231.5 Expectation of steady scoringDallas has consistently pushed games over its team total at home, which keeps live betting in play if the pace stays high.
Matchup focus
Philadelphia enters at 17–14, while Dallas sits at 12–22 and is trying to stop a three-game losing streak. Maxey continues to carry the Sixers offensively, averaging around 30 points and seven assists. Embiid’s presence draws attention inside, even in limited minutes, and George provides stability on both ends.Also read: Is Joel Embiid playing tonight vs the Dallas Mavericks? Latest update on the Philadelphia 76ers star’s injury report (January 1, 2026)For Dallas, the challenge is surviving without size and rim protection. Small lineups must hold up defensively, and shooters need to keep the game fast. If the Mavericks can control tempo and score in bursts, they can stay close. If the game slows down, Philadelphia’s edge inside becomes harder to overcome.