The West is simmering with action that awaits Thursday’s light of dawn. Delta Center is ready to welcome the Dallas Mavericks, in the hope that the home team, the Utah Jazz, finally breaks their 5-game avalanche. Meanwhile, Texas is looking forward to the night, wishing to see Anthony Davis suit up. So, is AD gracing the floor on January 8 in Salt Lake City?

Is Anthony Davis playing against the Utah Jazz?

Heading into Thursday’s game, the news is optimistic for the Mavs. Anthony Davis is suiting up for the starting lineup. The injury sheet is clean for the 32-year-old big man.

He is making some noise in the NBA trade market that’s about to shut on February 5. Everyone knows that the Mavericks’ front office is seemingly looking forward to trading the one-time champ.

In fact, experts of the game have now connected Trae Young’s trade to the Washington Wizards as a desperate move to acquire AD. The Hawks needed to clear the $46 million off their finances to make space for Davis’ $54.1 million salary for the 2025-26 NBA season.

Now, only time will tell if we’ll get to see yet another Anthony Davis trade in a matter of a year. This time last year, the Lakers moved him to Dallas in exchange for Luka Doncic.

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Meanwhile, AD’s injury-ridden season continues. He will appear for his 20th game on Thursday. In the 19 games so far, the veteran big man has averaged 20.3 ppg, 11.1 rebs, and 2.7 asts. He is averaging 50.6 FG%, 28.6 3PT%, and 72.5 FT%.

Dallas Mavericks vs Utah Jazz: Injury Report

Dallas Mavericks

The Dallas Mavericks are already short of Dereck Lively (foot), Kyrie Irving (knee), and Dante Exum (knee). But, walking to the Delta Center on Thursday, Jason Kidd has two more players to worry about. First, the team has listed their guard, Brandon Williams, as day-to-day due to a heel injury. Then, P.J. Washington’s ankle trouble will keep him listed as day-to-day. Both players may or may not suit up for the Mavericks on January 8.

Utah Jazz

The Utah Jazz will continue their quest for a win without Georges Niang. He is dealing with a foot injury. He has not stepped onto the floor since the franchise traded him back during the 2025 offseason. At the same time, Walker Kessler, who underwent left shoulder surgery, is out for the entire season. And Kevin Love will most likely return to the front line after the team gave him a day to rest against the OKC Thunder on Wednesday.

Predicted starting lineup for Dallas Mavericks vs Utah Jazz

Keeping in mind the injury updates, here’s the predicted starting five for both teams:

Thursday is ready to serve basketball drama on a platter. Who will emerge victorious from this West vs West matchup? We’ll find out!