Dallas Mavericks vs Los Angeles Lakers. Image via: Getty Images

The Dallas Mavericks will play the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena on Thursday, February 12, in a Western Conference matchup shaped by injuries on both teams. Multiple key players are unavailable, so both sides are expected to adjust their starting lineups and bench rotations.The Lakers are near the top of the Pacific Division standings, while the Mavericks are working to stay in the playoff race. With important players out, availability could play a major role in how the game unfolds.

Dallas Mavericks vs Los Angeles Lakers injury report and availability (February 12, 2026)

The Dallas Mavericks will be without rookie forward Cooper Flagg, who is sidelined with a left midfoot sprain and is not expected back before February 20. The team could also be thin on the wing, with two rotation players listed as questionable.

Dallas Mavericks injury report (Feb 12, 2026)

Kyrie Irving and Klay Thompson are active and expected to start. P.J. Washington, Daniel Gafford, Dereck Lively II, Marvin Bagley III, Khris Middleton, Tyus Jones, AJ Johnson, Miles Kelly, Ryan Nembhard, Dwight Powell, and Brandon Williams are also available.With Flagg out, Dallas may need more minutes from Thompson, Middleton, and its younger guards.The Lakers will also be missing important players. Luka Doncic is out with a hamstring strain, and center Deandre Ayton will not play because of right knee soreness. Austin Reaves is a game-time decision due to a minor lower-body issue and could be limited if he plays.

Los Angeles Lakers injury report (Feb 12, 2026)

LeBron James is available and will likely take on a larger role. Rui Hachimura, Luke Kennard, Marcus Smart, Nick Smith Jr., Jarred Vanderbilt, Dalton Knecht, Adou Thiero, Drew Timme, Jaxson Hayes, Kobe Bufkin, Chris Manon, and Bronny James are not listed on the injury report.Expected rotations entering the matchup

Dallas Mavericks rotation

• Backcourt: Kyrie Irving, Tyus Jones, Klay Thompson, AJ Johnson, Ryan Nembhard, Brandon Williams • Frontcourt: P.J. Washington, Khris Middleton, Cooper Flagg (when healthy), Daniel Gafford, Dereck Lively II, Marvin Bagley III, Naji Marshall, Caleb MartinDallas relies on Irving for scoring and ball handling, while Thompson provides perimeter shooting. Washington and Middleton handle secondary playmaking duties.

Los Angeles Lakers rotation

• Backcourt: Luka Doncic (when healthy), Austin Reaves, Marcus Smart, Luke Kennard, Nick Smith Jr., Kobe Bufkin, Bronny James • Frontcourt: LeBron James, Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, Dalton Knecht, Drew Timme, Jaxson Hayes, Maxi Kleber, Adou ThieroWithout Doncic, the offense is expected to run through James, with added responsibility for Reaves and Smart.

Dallas Mavericks vs Los Angeles Lakers Head-to-head record and recent results

The Lakers have gone 5-3 against Dallas over the past three seasons and have won several close games at home. Los Angeles also won the first meeting between the teams this season, using rebounding and second-chance points to create separation.

Dallas Mavericks vs Los Angeles Lakers Recent form (last five games)

• Mavericks (19-34, 12th in the West): losses to Phoenix, San Antonio twice, Boston, and Houston. Dallas is allowing 117.3 points per game and has struggled defensively, especially away from home. • Lakers (32-21, 1st in the Pacific): wins over Golden State, Philadelphia, and Brooklyn, with losses to San Antonio and Oklahoma City. The Lakers score 114.1 points per game and allow 116.3 but remain high in the standings.

Dallas Mavericks vs Los Angeles Lakers Team stats and playing style

Dallas averages:

• 114.1 points scored • 117.3 points allowed • 45.0 rebounds • 25.2 assists • 14.2 turnoversDallas often depends on Irving’s ability to create shots. When healthy, Flagg adds defense and versatility. Thompson helps space the floor, while Washington and Middleton support the offense. The Mavericks prefer a faster pace but have had defensive issues.

Los Angeles averages:

• 114.1 points scored • 116.3 points allowed • 41.1 rebounds • 25.1 assists • 14.5 turnoversThe Lakers usually operate through James and Doncic. With Doncic unavailable, James is expected to handle more playmaking. Reaves provides perimeter scoring, and Smart supports the offense. The Lakers look to push the ball after missed shots and compete on the boards.

Dallas Mavericks vs Los Angeles Lakers Key factors to watch (February 12, 2026)

Dallas Mavericks

• Manage the tempo and limit fast-break chances • Get efficient scoring from Irving • Win the rebounding battle with Washington, Middleton, Gafford, and Lively

Los Angeles Lakers

• Handle James’ workload carefully • Defend Irving and Thompson on the perimeter • Create second-chance opportunities

Dallas Mavericks vs Los Angeles Lakers Betting outlook and game context (February 12, 2026)

The Lakers are listed as 6.5-point favorites at home, with the total set around 235.5, suggesting a high-scoring game.Even without Doncic and Ayton, Los Angeles remains favored because of James and home court. Dallas still has experienced guards who can keep the game close if the defense improves. The matchup will also show how the Mavericks’ younger players respond while the Lakers try to maintain their position in the conference despite missing two starters.