Dallas Mavericks: What to watch for in preseason opener vs. Bucks

Dallas Mavericks: What to watch for in preseason opener against the Bucks

Dallas Mavericks basketball is officially back. They have been practicing for over a week in preparation for the 2020-2021 season. The Mavs embark on their first preseason action on Saturday evening.

They are traveling to Wisconsin to face the Milwaukee Bucks. There will be plenty of talk about Giannis Antetokounmpo and his impending free agency. He has until Dec. 21 to sign his supermax extension with the Bucks. If that deadline passes with no deal, the Mavs chances of signing him away from Milwaukee improve.

Fans will want to get their first look at the 2020-2021 Mavericks. Here is how and what to watch for in the preseason opener for both teams.

Dallas Mavericks vs. Milwaukee Bucks preseason opener: How to watch

Start time: 7:00 p.m. CT or 8:00 p.m. ET

How to watch: Fox Sports Wisconsin (Milwaukee market)

Watch online: Mavs.com, Fox Sports Go (Milwaukee market), NBA League Pass (Out of market)

Dallas Mavericks vs. Milwaukee Bucks injury updates

Kristaps Porzingis is out for the Mavs following his meniscus repair in the offseason. Coach Carlisle noted he would be on the sidelines until January multiple times during training camp. The Mavericks have no other reported injuries, but it is a preseason game. Expect Dallas to be cautious with any nagging ailment.

Torrey Craig is questionable for the Bucks with a hamstring injury. They are otherwise healthy but do not be surprised to see players rested in the preseason. Keep an eye on Twitter for all the latest leading into tipoff.

Dallas Mavericks vs. Milwaukee Bucks storyline to follow: Luka vs. Giannis

Doncic and Antetokounmpo are the two favorites to take home MVP honors entering the season. The Greek Freak has led the Bucks to the best regular-season record as he won Most Valuable Player for two straight years. Doncic finished fourth in the voting last season but is looking to become the youngest player to ever grab the honors in 2021.

The showdown of two of the NBA’s elite promises to be worth the price of admission even if both players see limited action on Saturday.

Fans will also get to see Josh Richardson, James Johnson, Josh Green, Wesley Iwundu, Tyrell Terry, and Tyler Bey play their first game with the Mavericks. It promises to be fun, so do not miss it.