Dallas Mavericks vs Los Angeles Lakers. Image via: Getty Images Luka Doncic is expected to play on January 24, 2026, when the Los Angeles Lakers face the Dallas Mavericks. He is not listed on the injury report and is set to lead the Lakers alongside LeBron James as the team manages a short-handed rotation.This will be another return to Dallas for Luka Doncic, where he spent the early part of his career. Since joining Los Angeles, he has played Dallas three times and won all three. That includes a 45-point performance in his first game against them after the trade. He comes into this matchup averaging 33.4 points per game, the highest mark in the league.
Why Luka Doncic’sDallas Meeting Carries Added Weight
Luka Doncic has played well in every matchup against the Mavericks this season. In their earlier meeting in Los Angeles, he finished with 35 points and 11 assists. His scoring has been steady throughout January, with at least 30 points in seven of his last 10 games. Over that stretch, he is averaging 33.3 points, 8.6 assists, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.5 three-pointers per game.The setting matters as well. Dallas fans continue to support him, but the circumstances around his departure remain part of the backdrop. The Mavericks are at home, but they enter the game missing several core players.
Los Angeles Lakers Injury Situation (January 24, 2026)
Los Angeles Lakers are relying heavily on its top two players due to injuries in the rotation. • Austin Reaves: Out (left calf strain) • Adou Thiero: Out (right MCL sprain)With those absences, Doncic and James are expected to handle most of the offense. James is available and has been productive in recent games, helping balance the workload.
Dallas Mavericks Injury Situation (January 24, 2026)
Dallas Mavericks are dealing with multiple long-term and short-term injuries. • Anthony Davis: Out (hand/finger) • Kyrie Irving: Out (ACL) • Dereck Lively II: Out for the season (surgery) • Dante Exum: Out for the season (knee) • Daniel Gafford: Probable (ankle) • Moussa Cisse: Questionable (illness)Rookie Cooper Flagg has returned from an ankle issue and has been part of recent wins against the Knicks and Warriors.Also read: Los Angeles Lakers vs Dallas Mavericks injury report: Who’s playing, injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (January 24, 2026)
What’s at Stake for Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Mavericks
Both teams are leaning on their stars because of injuries. The Lakers have held up well on the road, while Dallas has been competitive at home. With limited depth on both sides, the outcome is likely to come down to how much control Doncic and James can establish early.