Mavericks: What to watch for as Luka Doncic and Slovenia face Japan

The Dallas Mavericks are gearing up for a massive week. The draft takes place on Thursday with free agency beginning quickly on Aug. 2. Dallas will be focused on improving their roster and jumping into the title picture.

Across the world, Luka Doncic is representing Slovenia in the Olympic Games. He had an incredible 48-point debut in a victory over Argentina. The win puts Doncic and his country in the driver’s seat to advance to the quarterfinals.

Slovenia can secure their place with a win over Japan in their second Group C contest. The hosts lost their opener to Spain but will be a tough out for Luka Doncic and company. Here is how to watch, the odds, and more.

Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic and Slovenia vs. Japan: How to watch

Start time: 11:40 p.m. CT on July 28 or 12:40 a.m. ET on July 29

How to watch: Peacock

Watch online: Peacock, NBC Olympics

Odds courtesy of WynnBET: Slovenia -4000, Japan +1250

Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic and Slovenia vs. Japan: Injury updates

Slovenia has all 12 players fit for the second game of the tournament. Doncic will be leading the way, but Klemen Prepelic and Mike Tobey figure to be key pieces if they are going to get their second victory in Tokyo.

Japan is also fully healthy entering the contest. Riu Hachimura and Yuta Watanabe are the top players for the hosts. Slovenia will have to slow the duo down to walk away with a victory.

Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic and Slovenia vs. Japan storyline to watch: Luka setting records

Doncic’s 48 points in the opener were the second-highest performance in an Olympic game. Brazil’s Oscar Schmidt holds the record, but he is rooting for Luka to break it. It could happen early Thursday morning. Japan will have no answers for Doncic. Can he make history? Mavs supporters know Luka has a chance every time he takes the floor.

Slovenia just wants to win. A victory secures them a place in the knockout phase. Winning their quarterfinal guarantees them a place in a medal game. Luka Doncic wants to bring one back to his country. Expect the Dallas Mavericks superstar to go off against Japan, and fans will not want to miss it.