Latest Injury Update: Is Anthony Davis Playing Tonight Against the Philadelphia 76ers?

As the Dallas Mavericks prepare to host the Philadelphia 76ers on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2026, at the American Airlines Center, all eyes are on star big man Anthony Davis and his availability. The 32-year-old forward/center has been battling right adductor soreness (initially reported as groin spasms/strain) since sustaining the injury during the Mavericks’ Christmas Day loss to the Golden State Warriors. With tip-off scheduled for 8:30 p.m. EST, the latest updates indicate that Davis remains day-to-day, leaving his status uncertain heading into the game.

The Injury Timeline: From Christmas Day to Now

Anthony Davis’s latest injury setback began on December 25, 2025, during the Mavericks’ nationally televised matchup against the Warriors in San Francisco. Davis was dominating early, but in the second quarter—while running the floor on a fast break—he suddenly pulled up limping at the 8:50 mark. He headed straight to the locker room after a brief examination on the bench and did not return.

The Mavericks quickly ruled him out for the remainder of the game, initially diagnosing it as right groin spasms. Postgame, coach Jason Kidd provided no detailed update, and Davis left the locker room without speaking to reporters. He finished with just 3 points and 3 rebounds in 11 minutes of action.

The next day, December 26, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Davis had sustained a minor groin strain and was expected to miss a few games. The team adopted a cautious approach, prioritizing long-term health given Davis’s history of lower-body issues.

• December 27 vs. Sacramento Kings: Davis was listed as questionable with right adductor soreness but ultimately ruled out. The Mavericks lost, extending their skid.
• December 29 vs. Portland Trail Blazers: Again questionable, Davis attended morning shootaround but was ruled out shortly before tip-off. He missed the game, marking his third straight absence. Dallas fell 125-122 in a close contest, with rookie Cooper Flagg and others stepping up but unable to secure the win.

Throughout this period, reports emphasized that the injury was not considered long-term or severe. The Mavericks have monitored him daily, with no structural damage reported from imaging. However, the team’s conservative management—stemming from Davis’s earlier season absences (including a left calf strain that cost him 16 games)—has kept him sidelined to avoid aggravation.

As of December 31, 2025, the most recent pregame information from ESPN lists Davis as day-to-day (groin) for the January 1 matchup against Philadelphia. No final ruling has been issued yet, but the “day-to-day” tag suggests optimism for a potential return, especially with the game being at home after a road trip and providing extra rest.

Why Davis’s Status Matters So Much for Dallas

Anthony Davis has been a cornerstone for the Mavericks since his arrival, despite the injury-plagued season. When healthy, he averages approximately 21.7 points, 11.4 rebounds, and strong rim protection, forming a dynamic frontcourt tandem with rookie sensation Cooper Flagg. Dallas’s record reflects his impact:

• With Davis: Around 8-8 (or better in stretches).
• Without Davis: Significantly worse, often struggling defensively in the paint and on the glass.

The current three-game losing streak—all without Davis—has dropped the Mavericks to 12-22, 12th in the Western Conference. Facing a solid 17-14 76ers team led by Tyrese Maxey (and potentially Joel Embiid, who is also managed carefully), Davis’s presence could be the difference in halting the skid.

Without him, Dallas relies heavily on Flagg’s versatility, Daniel Gafford or PJ Washington’s interior play, and perimeter scoring from players like Naji Marshall, Max Christie, and Klay Thompson. The paint defense suffers noticeably, as seen in the Portland loss where the Blazers dominated inside.

Historical Context: Davis’s Injury-Prone Seasons

This latest issue adds to a frustrating pattern for Davis in Dallas. After being acquired in a blockbuster trade, he missed significant time last season and has continued to battle soft-tissue injuries this year:

• Early season: Left calf strain (missed 16+ games).
• Mid-season management: Various lower-body concerns.
• Now: Right adductor/groin strain.

At 32, Davis remains an elite two-way force when on the court, but availability has been a recurring theme. The Mavericks have emphasized load management, especially with trade rumors swirling ahead of the February deadline.

What to Expect Tonight: Potential Scenarios

• If Davis Plays: Expect him to be on a minutes restriction initially (around 28-32 minutes). His mid-range game, rebounding, and pick-and-roll defense would exploit Philadelphia’s frontcourt, particularly if Embiid is limited or out. A healthy Davis could dominate the glass against Andre Drummond and give Flagg more space to operate.
• If Davis Sits: The Mavericks would start Gafford or Washington at center, leaning on Flagg for more usage. Defensive rebounding and interior scoring would be vulnerabilities, potentially allowing Maxey to attack in transition.

The official injury report and pregame warmups will provide the final word. Coach Kidd is likely to address it in his pregame media availability.

Broader Implications for the Mavericks’ Season

Dallas desperately needs a win to start 2026 on a positive note. A victory over Philadelphia could spark momentum, especially at home where the crowd at American Airlines Center is known for its energy. Conversely, another loss without Davis would intensify questions about roster stability, trade possibilities, and playoff viability in a stacked West.

Rookie Cooper Flagg has shown star potential, but the team needs its veterans healthy to compete. Davis’s return—whenever it happens—will be a major boost.

Fans should monitor official Mavericks channels, NBA.com, or ESPN for the 5 p.m. CST injury report submission on game day for confirmation.

In summary, as of December 31, 2025, Anthony Davis is day-to-day and has a realistic chance to play tonight against the 76ers, but nothing is guaranteed. The Mavericks and their supporters are holding their breath for positive news to ring in the new year with a much-needed victory.