Mavericks Face Mounting Injuries as Russell, Flagg Statuses Shift Ahead of Pelicans Matchup

The Dallas Mavericks enter Friday’s NBA Cup matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans with uncertainty once again clouding their rotation. Injuries have already stripped key contributors from the lineup, and the latest complication came when guard D’Angelo Russell was added to the injury report. His status, now listed as questionable because of an illness, further complicates the team’s game plan ahead of a crucial early-season contest.

Russell joins a growing list of unavailable or limited players that includes Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis, both still working their way back from injuries, and guard Dante Exum. The Mavericks expected Russell to play a major role when they acquired him, but the veteran has already shifted between starting duties and a sixth-man role depending on the roster’s health.

Despite the constant changes, Russell has been a stabilizing offensive presence, especially during Wednesday’s narrow loss to the New York Knicks. But the Mavericks’ inconsistency, compounded by injuries and off-court shifts in leadership, has placed increased pressure on a roster that has struggled to find rhythm.

Friday’s matchup provides an opportunity for Dallas to reset against a Pelicans team enduring its own challenges. With the Mavericks sitting near the bottom of the Western Conference standings, the urgency to regain momentum grows by the week.

1. Russell’s Status Adds New Layer to Lineup Challenges

D’Angelo Russell’s late addition to the injury report poses another lineup question for a team already stretched thin. Although not yet ruled out, his questionable designation means the Mavericks could be forced into another last-minute adjustment if he is unable to play. The illness comes at a time when stability in the guard rotation has been difficult to maintain. Before falling ill, Russell delivered one of his strongest performances of the season with 23 points, seven assists, and five rebounds on efficient shooting against New York. His scoring punch and playmaking have helped anchor Dallas’ second unit, particularly in games where the roster has been depleted. Since joining Dallas, Russell has shifted between reserve and starting roles depending on injuries to Irving and others. Regardless of position, his contributions have remained steady, averaging 12.6 points, 5.0 assists, and 2.9 rebounds. For coach Jason Kidd, Russell’s adaptability has been essential during a chaotic early season. Whether Russell is available Friday could influence the Mavericks’ approach on both ends of the floor. His presence adds spacing, secondary playmaking, and offensive pace that Dallas needs during stretches without its stars.

2. Flagg Cleared to Return After Illness

Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg received positive news ahead of Friday’s game, as he was cleared to return after missing Wednesday’s contest due to illness. The top prospect has experienced a turbulent entry into the NBA, not because of his own play but due to the wider instability surrounding the franchise. Flagg’s return adds needed depth to a roster that has been repeatedly stretched by injuries. While his early minutes have fluctuated, the rookie has offered defensive energy and a developing offensive skill set that fits the team’s long-term plans. His availability against New Orleans gives Dallas more flexibility in the frontcourt and wing rotations. The Mavericks have been deliberate with Flagg’s workload, particularly given the team’s uneven start and off-court noise. The firing of former general manager Nico Harrison added another layer of uncertainty around the organization, affecting both internal dynamics and the environment surrounding the young talent. As Flagg rejoins the lineup, Dallas hopes his return contributes to improved execution and stability. Even in limited minutes, his activity and versatility can provide a lift to a roster searching for consistent production.

3. Dallas Searches for Answers Amid Growing Pressure

The Mavericks’ 4-12 record places them near the bottom of the Western Conference, a surprising setback for a franchise that entered the season with postseason expectations. Injuries have undoubtedly played a role, but Dallas’ struggles have extended beyond availability issues, affecting both ends of the court. The team’s defensive performance has fluctuated dramatically, with breakdowns in communication and personnel shortages contributing to losses. Offensively, the absence of Irving and Davis has placed an outsized burden on role players, leading to uneven results in late-game situations. Friday’s matchup offers a chance to regain footing against a Pelicans team sitting at 2-13, the worst record in the West. But given Dallas’ recent track record, no opponent appears automatic. The Mavericks will need sharper execution and contributions from throughout the roster, whether or not Russell plays. As the season progresses, Dallas faces mounting urgency to establish stability and identity. The return of Flagg and the potential availability of Russell represent steps forward, but broader consistency remains the team’s greatest challenge.