Dallas Mavericks: What to watch for in Mavs vs. Nets

The Dallas Mavericks have won seven of their last nine games as they push to avoid the play-in tournament. Luka Doncic and company currently sit fifth in the Western Conference, but the margins are slim. They clinched a postseason berth with their win over Miami on Tuesday. The Mavs are looking to close out their final seven games strong to finish in the top six. The specifics on the play-in tournament can be found here.

Thursday is a massive nationally televised game for the Mavs. They host the Brooklyn Nets at the American Airlines Center. It is their final game against a team over .500 during the 2020-2021 regular season. A win would push the Mavericks closer to a top-five finish, but Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving will have other plans.

Fans will not want to miss the May 6 showdown between the Mavericks and Nets. Here is a closer look at how and what to watch for on Thursday night.

Dallas Mavericks vs. Brooklyn Nets: How to watch

Start time: 6:30 p.m. CT or 7:30 p.m. ET

How to watch: TNT (national) Bally Sports Southwest (Dallas market), YES (Nets market)

Watch online: TNT online, Bally Sports app (Dallas market)

Dallas Mavericks vs. Brooklyn Nets injury updates

The Mavericks ruled out Kristaps Porzingis (knee), Maxi Kleber (Achilles), and Tyrell Terry (personal) on the NBA’s official injury report. Dallas is otherwise healthy heading into Thursday’s game.

James Harden (hamstring), Chris Chiozza (hand), and Spencer Dinwiddie (knee) are out for the Nets.

Fans should check Twitter before tipoff for any late-breaking injury information before Thursday’s game.

Dallas Mavericks vs. Brooklyn Nets storyline to follow: Hot versus cold

The Mavericks dominated the Nets in their lone meeting so far this season. Luka Doncic led the way with 27 points in the 115-98 win on Feb. 27, but the Nets will be a different squad on Thursday night. Both Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving missed the first meeting.

Brooklyn has lost three straight games heading into Thursday’s matchup. Former Maverick and Hall of Famer Steve Nash noted his team’s chemistry is not where it needs to be after his three superstars have missed so much time. Expect the Nets to be hungry to get on the same page and get back in the win column in Dallas on May 6.

Supporters will not want to miss what promises to be a fun and exciting contest. Expect Luka Doncic to stay hot as he tries to lift the Dallas Mavericks to a crucial win. Do not miss it.