The Dallas Mavericks finalized their injury report ahead of their matchup with the Los Angeles Lakers, confirming a notable shift in wing availability.
Naji Marshall (left foot strain) is officially active despite not participating in morning shootaround. Caleb Martin (left ankle sprain), who did take part in shootaround earlier in the day, has been downgraded to out.
Naji Marshall Trending Toward Return
Marshall’s activation provides a needed boost for a Mavericks team seeking momentum entering the All-Star break. Although he was absent from shootaround, the team’s medical update later confirmed his availability, signaling confidence in his recovery from the foot strain.
Marshall has been one of Dallas’ most consistent downhill threats this season, averaging 15.0 points and 5.0 rebounds while supplying defensive versatility and transition scoring. His physical style has become increasingly important during the Mavericks’ recent stretch.
“We’re a downhill team,” Marshall said earlier this week. “When we get downhill, we’re tough to guard and tough to stop.”
Dallas attempted 44 free throws in its most recent game against the Phoenix Suns, a reflection of the paint pressure Marshall helps generate. His presence restores one of the roster’s most reliable rim attackers and defensive tone-setters.
Caleb Martin Ruled Out, Expanding Role for Klay Thompson and Khris Middleton
Martin’s downgrade to out narrows the wing rotation, especially considering he had played at least 20 minutes in 11 of the previous 13 games. His absence removes a reliable perimeter defender and floor spacer from the rotation.
Head coach Jason Kidd previously praised Martin’s professionalism earlier this season amid fluctuating minutes.
“He wanted to play early,” Kidd said recently. “At the time there were no minutes for him, but I think him staying ready, continuing to keep working — and he’s one of our hot players right now shooting the three at a high clip. But just his energy and positivity and just being a pro. And we definitely need that with some of the injuries and also with the trades.”
Without Martin available, Dallas will have additional runway to lean on Klay Thompson and Khris Middleton for extended wing minutes.
Thompson’s perimeter shooting and Middleton’s playmaking versatility become increasingly important in balancing the Mavericks’ downhill identity with needed three-point production. Both veterans are positioned to absorb additional offensive responsibility as Dallas seeks improved spacing and early scoring stability.
Context Ahead of Facing the Los Angeles Lakers
The Mavericks (19–34) continue to navigate multiple absences. Cooper Flagg (left midfoot sprain), Kyrie Irving (knee surgery), and Dereck Lively II (foot surgery) remain out.
The Lakers (32–21) have ruled out Luka Dončić (left hamstring strain), removing one of the league’s top scorers from the matchup. Los Angeles still features significant offensive firepower, including Austin Reaves and LeBron James.
For Dallas, Marshall’s activation restores downhill pressure and defensive versatility at a critical time. Martin’s absence narrows rotation flexibility, increasing the importance of early physical engagement and balanced perimeter production as the Mavericks seek stability before the break.
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