The Dallas Mavericks will be without Anthony Davis for Saturday’s game against the Sacramento Kings, and head coach Jason Kidd made clear the team’s approach is rooted in caution rather than urgency.
Davis has been ruled out as he continues to deal with right adductor soreness after exiting Thursday’s 126–116 loss to the Golden State Warriors late in the second quarter. While there remains no firm timetable for his return, Kidd said the organization is encouraged by Davis’ progress while still prioritizing patience.
“Hopefully it’s not long,” Kidd said. “He’s going better, but we’ll see here in the next couple days of how long he’ll be out.”
Frontcourt Plan Takes Shape Without Anthony Davis
With Davis sidelined, Kidd outlined how the Mavericks plan to handle the frontcourt rotation in the interim. Daniel Gafford will start in Davis’ place, while Dwight Powell and Moussa Cissé are expected to play expanded roles off the bench.
Kidd emphasized that the responsibility will be shared, particularly on the defensive end and on the glass, as Dallas works through the absence of its interior anchor.
“They’re going to have to step up,” Kidd said.
Additional Absences Force Dallas Mavericks Lineup Adjustments
The Mavericks will also be without Brandon Williams, who was ruled out with a left calf contusion, further thinning Dallas’ backcourt depth during the road trip.
In response, Dallas started Max Christie against Sacramento, while Naji Marshall shifted to a reserve role. The lineup change reflects ongoing efforts to balance defense, spacing, and workload as the team manages multiple injuries.
Day-to-Day Outlook Remains the Focus
Kidd reiterated that Davis’ situation will continue to be evaluated on a day-to-day basis, with the next few days expected to provide additional clarity. The Mavericks remain focused on ensuring Davis returns at full strength rather than pushing him back prematurely.
For now, Dallas will rely on internal depth and flexibility as it plays out the remainder of the road trip, keeping the long view in mind as it manages one of the league’s most important — and carefully monitored — players.
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