Jason Kidd opened up about the Mavericks’ ongoing injury struggles after their 122-107 loss to the Boston Celtics. Last season, the Mavericks surged into the NBA Finals thanks to a strong trade deadline, but this season, they’re currently in ninth place in the Western Conference and fighting for a play-in spot. Kidd acknowledged the team’s injury troubles, saying, “This is tough, I’ve never seen anything like it. And it’s not gonna get any better,” according to ClutchPoints’ reporter Joey Mistretta.
The injury woes continue as backup big man Maxi Kleber left the Celtics game early with an ankle injury and did not return, further weakening the Mavericks’ frontcourt. Both Dwight Powell and Dereck Lively II were unavailable for the game due to injuries, leaving Daniel Gafford as the only healthy center on the roster. Lively, in particular, is out indefinitely with a foot injury, which is a significant setback for both the team and the promising young center.
In addition to the center position, the Mavericks have been dealing with injuries to other key players. Star wing Luka Dončić has been sidelined with a calf injury since Christmas Day, and Dante Exum, who played a crucial role last season, hasn’t made his 2024-25 season debut due to a wrist injury sustained during training camp. Naji Marshall also missed the game against the Celtics due to injury.
With a 24-22 record and a recent 4-6 stretch over the last ten games, the Mavericks still have time to make a push in the standings, but their ongoing injury problems could derail their hopes for the season. As the trade deadline approaches, the team has been mentioned as being in the market for additional help to address their growing needs.
