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Dallas Mavericks Reveal Three Key Injury Updates Before Denver Nuggets Game

Grant AfsethGrant Afseth
P.J. Washington, Dallas Mavericks, NBA
Photo by Jess Rapfogel/Getty Images

The Dallas Mavericks received a timely lift ahead of Wednesday night’s game against the Denver Nuggets, with P.J. Washington and Brandon Williams both cleared to play after appearing on the injury report earlier in the day. The update offered a measure of relief for a roster that has been reshaped nightly by injuries, even as Max Christie was downgraded to out due to illness.

Washington had been listed as questionable with a right ankle sprain, while Williams was dealing with an illness. Both were cleared following pregame evaluation, allowing Dallas to reinsert two rotation pieces at a moment when availability has often dictated roles and minutes.

P.J. Washington, Brandon Williams Return

Washington’s return carries added weight given both the length of his absence and the role he has assumed this season. He last appeared Jan. 3 against the Houston Rockets, exiting after 12 minutes in the game in which he suffered the ankle injury. He missed the next five games as Dallas managed his recovery.

With Anthony Davis and Dereck Lively II still sidelined, Washington’s presence restores a critical two-way option in the frontcourt. He has averaged 14.7 points, 7.4 rebounds and 1.9 assists in 30 games this season, production that has helped stabilize lineups alongside Cooper Flagg and Daniel Gafford.

Williams’ availability similarly steadies the backcourt as Dallas continues without Kyrie Irving and Danté Exum. He has averaged 11.5 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 3.8 assists in 34 games, providing scoring punch and secondary creation in a rotation that has leaned heavily on young players. Their return together reflects what head coach Jason Kidd described as incremental progress as the Mavericks reach the halfway point of the season.

“If you’re talking about the halfway point, we’re a little bit healthier than we were, so that’s a positive,” Kidd said. “Again, we’re playing with pace, we’re getting good looks, so we’re starting to knock down some of those looks.”

Kidd added that even small steps matter as the calendar turns toward the stretch run.

“After the All-Star break it becomes a sprint. Each game means more,” he said. “So if we can continue to get healthy, that would be a good thing.”

Max Christie Out as Injuries Continue to Shape Rotation

Christie was downgraded from doubtful to out due to illness, removing a perimeter option from a rotation already stretched thin. He has averaged 12.3 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in 38 games this season, production that has taken on added importance as Dallas has navigated extended absences across the roster.

Moussa Cissé was also ruled out, while Miles Kelly is available after previously being listed as questionable. Dallas remains without several core contributors, including Anthony Davis (left finger sprain), Kyrie Irving (left knee surgery), Dereck Lively II (right foot surgery), and Danté Exum (right knee surgery), leaving little margin for further setbacks.

Jason Kidd Addresses Health Outlook and Opportunity For Young Players

Kidd reiterated that Davis will not require surgery on the ligament damage in his left hand, providing clarity on Dallas’ longer-term outlook even as the All-Star big man remains sidelined.

“I think it’s good when you talk about six weeks,” Kidd said. “That’s a positive. If he had to have surgery, does that mean it’s longer? I don’t know. But I think it’s good that he didn’t have to have surgery and that the number was six weeks.”

With injuries forcing expanded responsibility across the roster, Kidd emphasized the importance of players making the most of their opportunities.

“A lot of guys would not have this opportunity,” he said. “So take advantage of it. Continue to work on your craft.”

Despite the absences, the Mavericks will start Jaden Hardy, Naji Marshall, Cooper Flagg, P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford against Denver. Dallas enters the night at 15–25, sitting 2½ games behind the final Western Conference play-in spot, with Washington’s return and Williams’ availability representing small but meaningful steps toward stability.

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Tags :Brandon WilliamsDallas MavericksDenver NuggetsMavericks injuriesMax ChristieNBA Injury ReportP.J. Washington
Grant Afseth

Grant Afseth

Senior Writer
Grant Afseth is a Senior Writer for DallasHoopsJournal.com, where he leads in-depth coverage of the Mavericks, Wings, and more. Between a focus on the latest news, closer looks at games, front office strategy, and more, Afseth provides objective coverage. Afseth contributes broader NBA coverage across platforms and has been cited in national outlets for his reporting and analysis. With nearly a decade of journalism experience, Afseth has covered the NBA and WNBA for multiple major outlets, including Athlon Sports, BallIsLife, Sportskeeda, and RG.org. He previously reported on the Indiana Pacers for CNHI’s Kokomo Tribune and the Mavericks for FanNation.
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