The Dallas Mavericks are navigating a stretch of the season marked by key absences and sudden setbacks, leaving their rotation in constant flux.
With several starters and core contributors dealing with injuries of varying severity, the team faces uncertainty at multiple positions. Yet the latest developments suggest both immediate concerns and long-term implications as the Mavericks prepare for its next challenge.
Current Status of the Mavericks’ Most Impacted Players
1) Daniel Gafford
Daniel Gafford’s situation remains the most pressing after his return from a right ankle issue was cut short. The big man re-injured the ankle during Wednesday’s win over Miami, leaving the court in visible discomfort.
Gafford exited the game mid-way and headed to the locker room. A video showed Gafford walking back under his own power. The Mavericks later ruled him out for the remainder of the night. Entering the matchup, Gafford was averaging 9.4 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.4 assists for the season.
His re-aggravated injury casts doubt on whether he will be available Friday against Oklahoma City, and the timing is far from ideal with the frontcourt already depleted.
2) P.J. Washington
P.J. Washington is also dealing with a right ankle problem. He turned his ankle when the ball rolled under him during warmups before his game against the Clippers, leading to his removal from the starting lineup.
He was ruled out for Wednesday’s game against Miami. The Mavericks have not confirmed whether he will be ready for Friday, although his initial designation suggested a short-term issue. Given Gafford’s setback, Washington’s availability suddenly takes on greater importance.
3) Dereck Lively II
The most concerning long-term situation involves Dereck Lively II. He has missed six straight games because of lingering foot issues after offseason surgery and has appeared in only seven of nineteen games this season.
Lively is now seeking multiple medical opinions after experiencing swelling and discomfort.
BREAKING: Dallas Mavericks center Dereck Lively II, who has been sidelined due to swelling and discomfort in his right foot, is currently seeking multiple opinions on the next steps in his treatment process via Mavs PR. pic.twitter.com/CqibHS6iK1
— Abby Jones (@_abigaiiiil) December 4, 2025
Reports noted he was recently seen in a walking boot, reinforcing fears of an extended absence. His injury history is becoming a defining challenge for both player and franchise.
The Mavericks had been fearing an extended absence for Dereck Lively II, as @TheSteinLine first reported on Nov. 25, and Lively was seen this week at a team event with his right foot in a walking boot. https://t.co/BQOvtgV9Ho
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) December 4, 2025
The Mavericks were already preparing for a potentially prolonged recovery, which could significantly impact their interior defense and rebounding.
4) Kyrie Irving
Kyrie Irving’s status, unfortunately, is the most definitive. The guard suffered a season-ending torn ACL in his left knee after an awkward landing during a drive against Sacramento. He briefly remained in the game to take free throws but was ruled out shortly afterward.
With Irving now sidelined for the year, the Mavericks face a profound loss in scoring, creation, and late-game decision-making. Each of these injuries has a different timeline and consequences, but together they create a period of uncertainty for the Mavericks team as it attempts to build momentum.
How the Mavericks adapt in the coming weeks will determine whether they can stay competitive while waiting for reinforcements to return.
