Jason Kidd Provides Injury Updates On Anthony Davis And Dereck Lively II Before Dallas Mavericks’ Face New Orleans Pelicans
The Dallas Mavericks’ frontcourt depth remains thin, but some encouraging signs are beginning to emerge. Head coach Jason Kidd offered updates on Anthony Davis and Dereck Lively II before Wednesday’s game against the New Orleans Pelicans, suggesting the team could soon regain two of its most important interior pieces.
Davis missed his third straight game Wednesday night but continues to make steady progress in his recovery. Kidd said the All-Star forward has responded well to treatment and is being evaluated daily as he ramps up conditioning.
“He’s reported that he’s feeling better,” Kidd said.
Lively, who has been out for five games with a right knee sprain, has also made progress after initially lacking a clear timeline for return. Kidd said the 7-footer has resumed on-court work and could be back in uniform within the next week if his recovery stays on track.
“Lively’s been participating on court and he’s doing well,” Kidd said. “He’s hopefully back by next week.”
Daniel Gafford’s Minutes Still Monitored
The Mavericks haven’t had their full frontcourt available since Daniel Gafford suffered a right ankle sprain on the first day of training camp.
Gafford recently returned and played 25 minutes in Monday’s loss to Houston, exceeding his planned 15–18 minute limit. He finished with 14 points, four rebounds, one assist, two steals, and three blocks. While the team values his energy and interior presence, Kidd cautioned against rushing his workload after a month-long absence.
“That’s the key word: press,” Kidd said. “If you press someone coming off an injury, you can put them in harm’s way. These are delicate things. I don’t think we can press anyone with the luck we’ve had with injuries.”
Jason Kidd Confident Despite Limited Depth
Despite dealing with multiple absences and minute restrictions, the Mavericks have managed to stay competitive in most games this season. Kidd acknowledged that maintaining chemistry and rhythm has been difficult but believes the team has the talent to overcome the early adversity.
“With the minute restrictions and the injuries, it is tough, but we believe we have enough talent to win,” Kidd said.
Davis has averaged 20.8 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 2.2 assists in five appearances this season. Lively has averaged 5.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.0 assists in three games.
No new updates were provided for Kyrie Irving or Danté Exum, who both remain sidelined.
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