‘Day To Day’: MRI Reveals Calf Strain As Anthony Davis Ruled Out For Dallas Mavericks’ Two-Game Trip
The Dallas Mavericks will be without star forward/center Anthony Davis for their next two games after an MRI revealed a low-grade left calf strain, the team announced Friday. The news comes as Dallas prepares for Saturday’s NBA Mexico City Game 2025 against the Detroit Pistons.
Davis sustained the injury in the first quarter of Wednesday’s 107-105 win over the Indiana Pacers and was held out for precautionary reasons. The 32-year-old played just seven minutes before exiting and will be re-evaluated after the team’s two-game road trip, which concludes Monday in Houston.
Head coach Jason Kidd confirmed Davis’ status before practice at Arena Ciudad de México, saying the team will continue to evaluate him throughout the weekend.
“A.D. is day-to-day,” Kidd said, declining to provide additional details.
Despite the setback, Davis traveled with the team and participated in light on-court work Friday. He said he’s already noticed progress in his recovery.
“It is going to be day to day,” Davis said. “But I feel better that is for sure.”
Through five games this season, Davis has averaged 20.8 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 2.2 assists while serving as Dallas’ interior anchor.
Dallas Mavericks Managing Multiple Key Injuries
The Mavericks’ injury concerns extend well beyond Davis heading into Saturday’s matchup. Daniel Gafford (right ankle sprain) and Dereck Lively II (right knee sprain) remain sidelined, while D’Angelo Russell (left knee contusion) is listed as questionable. Danté Exum (right knee injury management) and Kyrie Irving (left knee surgery) are also out.
Russell has averaged 10.8 points, 5.4 assists, and 2.6 rebounds in five games this season, playing a key role as a secondary ball handler and perimeter scorer. Lively has appeared in three games, averaging 5.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.0 assists while continuing his development as a mobile big man and rim protector.
The absence of Davis, Gafford, and Lively leaves Dallas without its primary frontcourt core. Kidd will likely turn to small-ball looks featuring P.J. Washington and Dwight Powell, with increased opportunities for rookie Cooper Flagg and wing contributors like Caleb Martin.
The Mavericks are 2-3 entering Saturday’s contest and have relied heavily on Anthony Davis’ two-way presence to stabilize their early-season defense. Kidd acknowledged that managing injuries will be a central challenge as the team navigates the first month of the season.
Dallas Mavericks Embrace Global Stage in Mexico City
Saturday’s matchup marks the 15th regular-season NBA game played in Mexico City — and the fourth for the Mavericks, the most by any franchise. The event continues the league’s ongoing push to grow the sport’s global footprint, particularly in Latin America.
Davis, who remains with the team despite his injury, said he’s excited to be part of the experience and appreciates the passion of Mexican fans.
“Obviously, basketball is a global game, and we’ve got fans all around the world,” Davis said. “It’s no different here in Mexico City. It’s definitely welcoming and exciting—not only for the fans and myself, but for the entire team.”
He added that playing internationally is an important part of growing the game.
“It’s very important,” Davis said. “The game is global—it doesn’t stop in the United States. It feels good to come to Mexico City and see fans in jerseys and everything. It’s a great experience.”
Kidd echoed that sentiment, noting the organization’s history of international participation.
“It is something incredible for the Mavs organization to come so many times,” Kidd said. “It shows how important Mexico is, and it is great to bring enjoyment to the fans.”
At 7,349 feet above sea level — over 2,000 feet higher than Denver — Mexico City provides one of the NBA’s most unique environments. Kidd, who played in a Mavericks win there during the 2016 season, recalled the challenge.
“It is exciting to be back,” Kidd said. “The Mexican fans really care about basketball, and that’s why it is important to be here. I don’t remember much of the game, just the lack of oxygen — you get tired really quick in here.”
The Mavericks will face the Pistons on Saturday before concluding their trip in Houston. Davis will remain with the team and be re-evaluated upon their return to Dallas.
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