Mavericks: Kristaps Porzingis and Josh Richardson out vs. Lakers

The Dallas Mavericks defeated the Los Angeles Lakers on April 22 behind a 30-point performance from Luka Doncic, but winning the second of a two-game set would no easy task. Anthony Davis had his minute’s limit boosted to 25 for the primetime game on ABC.

The Mavs will be short-handed too. Maxi Kleber was cleared to return after missing the team’s last game with a back injury, but two starters were ruled out before tipoff. Kristaps Porzingis suffered an ankle sprain in Thursday’s win, and he could not heal into time for the April 24 meeting. Josh Richardson joins KP on the sidelines as he deals with a hamstring injury.

The Mavericks are missing two-fifths of their starting lineup as they face the Lakers on Saturday night. How will they adjust? What should fans expect without the Unicorn and JRich? Let us take a closer look.

Kristaps Porzingis and Josh Richardson out vs. Lakers: How will Mavericks adjust?

Expect coach Rick Carlisle to shorten his rotation on Saturday night. He will rely on his starters for massive minutes and attempt to avoid using the bench.

Expect Tim Hardaway Jr. and Jalen Brunson to fill in for Richardson. Both will be asked for larger contributions on both ends of the floor. Carlisle could also give a few additional minutes to J.J. Redick. The veteran sharpshooter is still working his way back from a heel injury, though.

Maxi Kleber, Dwight Powell, and Willie Cauley-Stein will handle the bulk of the minutes at the five. Carlisle would decide to switch it up with Boban Marjanovic or Nicolo Melli if the Mavericks are struggling against the Lakers.

Both Kristaps Porzingis and Josh Richardson were listed as questionable heading into Saturday. JRich could return on Monday against the Kings, but it sounds like the Unicorn will miss additional time. Here is what coach Carlisle had to say before Saturday’s tipoff.

Dallas’ frontcourt depth will be tested without Porzingis. Luka Doncic will have to step up and have a massive night if the Mavericks want to pick up a win on April 24 and take the season series from the Los Angeles Lakers. Fans will not want to miss it, so please tune in and enjoy the game.