Overview
- Coach Jason Kidd confirmed the rookie’s scratch before tip after Dallas downgraded him from questionable to out for the nationally televised home game.
- The No. 1 pick had played the first 15 games, averaging 15.5 points, 6.3 rebounds and 3.1 assists while leading the Mavericks in scoring and minutes.
- Kyrie Irving and Dante Exum remain sidelined with knee issues and Anthony Davis is out with a left calf strain.
- Centers Dereck Lively II and Daniel Gafford are listed as probable to return, offering some frontcourt reinforcement.
- Reports indicate expanded roles are likely for veterans and wings, with candidates including D’Angelo Russell, P.J. Washington, Naji Marshall, Max Christie and Klay Thompson against New York.