The Oklahoma City Thunder are scheduled to face off against the Dallas Mavericks on Monday, continuing their three-game road trip. This matchup marks the beginning of a simultaneous road-and-home back-to-back series for the Thunder and is the first encounter of the season between these two teams.
The Thunder, currently unbeaten with a record of 3-0, recently secured a convincing 117-100 victory against the Atlanta Hawks. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander showcased his talent, contributing 30 points in just three quarters, while Chet Holmgren added an impressive 31 points in what was a more relaxed game compared to their previous two thrilling double-overtime contests.
On the other hand, the Mavericks enter this game with a record of 1-2 and are coming off an exciting 139-129 win against the Toronto Raptors. Within that victory, Anthony Davis scored 25 points, and promising talent Cooper Flagg contributed 22 points.
In terms of player availability, the Thunder will miss several key players: Jalen Williams is sidelined due to wrist surgery, while Chet Holmgren is listed as questionable with back soreness. Additionally, Alex Caruso (concussion), Isaiah Joe (knee contusion), Kenrich Williams (knee surgery), Nikola Topic (testicular surgery), and Thomas Sorber (torn ACL) are out for the upcoming game.
While the Mavericks have yet to release their full injury report due to the back-to-back schedule, it is confirmed that Kyrie Irving will not participate because of a torn ACL. Other player statuses remain uncertain.
Fans can look forward to tip-off from Dallas, which is set for 7:30 p.m. CT. The matchup promises an exciting evening of basketball, as both teams aim to secure crucial wins early in the season.