Dallas Mavericks forward Anthony Davis (left) reacts with Los Angeles Lakers guard Dalton Knecht (right) after the game at Crypto.com Arena (Image via Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images) The Los Angeles Lakers visit the Dallas Mavericks on January 24, 2026, at the American Airlines Center. Tip-off is set for 8:30 p.m. ET on ABC. Los Angeles enters at 26-17, sixth in the West. Dallas is 19-26 and sitting 12th.This game matters for different reasons. The Lakers are trying to hold position in a crowded playoff race while dealing with missing rotation players. The Mavericks are pushing to stay alive after a rough stretch that has been defined by injuries.It is also Luka Doncic’s first game in Dallas (2026) since being traded to Los Angeles. He now leads the Lakers’ offense alongside LeBron James, while the Mavericks adjust to life without several key starters.
Los Angeles Lakers vs Dallas Mavericks Injury Situation Shapes the Matchup (January 24, 2026)
Both teams are limited, and depth could decide the game.For the Lakers, Austin Reaves is out with a calf strain, leaving fewer options in the backcourt. Adou Thiero remains sidelined with a right MCL sprain and is expected back in early February. Anthony Davis is listed out with a finger injury despite mixed reports earlier in the week.Dallas is dealing with a longer list. Kyrie Irving is out after left knee surgery. Dereck Lively II is out for the season with foot and knee injuries. Dante Exum has been shut down following knee surgery. Daniel Gafford is a game-time decision with an ankle issue, while Moussa Cisse is doubtful or a game-time call due to illness.
Los Angeles Lakers vs Dallas Mavericks Head-to-Head Context
CategoryLakers RecordDetails All-Time 132-68 (66%) Lakers lead overall 2025-26 Season 1-0 Lakers won first meeting Recent Streak 3 wins Lakers on a roll vs DallasLos Angeles has controlled this matchup historically and has won the most recent meetings.
Los Angeles Lakers vs Dallas Mavericks Team Comparison and Form
Stat (Season Average)LakersMavericks Record 26-17 (.605) 19-26 (.422) FG% ~49% ~47% 3PT% ~32-34% ~34% Rebounds/Game 41-44 44-45 Assists/Game ~25 ~25 Recent Form L1 (Pacific 2nd) W4 (SW 4th)Models give the Lakers a slight edge, with win probability around 55 percent.
Los Angeles Lakers vs Dallas Mavericks Key Players to Watch (January 24, 2026)
Dončić is still doing what he always does, carrying a massive load on offense while filling up the box score. He’s scoring anywhere from the high 20s to the mid-30s most nights, and he’s backing that up with steady rebounding and playmaking. James remains a reliable presence as well, putting up 23.6 points a game while adding 6.1 rebounds and 6.4 assists.For Dallas, Cooper Flagg has emerged as the leading scorer at 18.8 points per game. Naji Marshall and Klay Thompson help take some pressure off, but with Irving and Lively unavailable, the Mavericks will need to be sharp in how they execute and control the tempo if they want to stay in the game.