Anthony Davis’ latest injury status suggests a return is close

After Dallas Mavericks All-Star Anthony Davis missed his third straight game due to a calf injury, his return to the field is imminent, according to the team’s latest injury report. The The Mavericks have one of the worst offenses in the NBAand Davis’ return will undoubtedly help them get back on track, especially after Wednesday’s 101-99 loss to the New Orleans Pelicans.

The Mavericks, 2-6, are now tied with the Pelicans for the worst record in the Western Conference. Dallas listed Davis as questionable their injury report for Friday’s game against the Memphis Grizzlies, which is technically an upgrade to a three-game shutout. Anthony Davis will most likely miss Friday’s game based on his status on the Mavericks’ injury report.

However, Davis’ return could be sooner rather than later, which is great news for the Mavericks, who are dealing with long-term injuries to starters Kyrie Irving and Derek Lively II.

The Mavericks have fallen to the lowest offensive rating in the NBA

The The Mavericks have the worst offensive efficiency in the NBAbehind the Wizards at 106.4 with an offensive rating of 103.5 after eight games of the 2025-26 regular season. Mavericks GM Nico Harrison, the man behind the most shocking trade in league history, sending Luka Doncic to the Lakers for Anthony Davis, promised a title season.

In a competitive Western Conference led by the defending champion Thunder, Mavericks fans were filled with optimism. Considering Davis was entering his first full season with the team and the Mavs drafted top prospect Cooper Flagg No. 1 overall this year, there was reason to look on the bright side, which included Flagg’s future.

Flagg, the NBA’s most anticipated No. 1 pick since Victor Wembanyama to the All-Star Spurs, reflected on the first weeks of his professional career, according to Mavericks reporter Abby Jones.

“For me, that’s the most (I’ve lost), you know, I think ever. So obviously it’s a lot different, and you have to adjust to playing a lot more games,” Flagg said, via Abbi Jones. “But I wouldn’t say anybody’s happy. The guys are obviously trying to stay level and they know we’ve got a lot of games left and it’s still very early. But I mean, speaking personally, I know it’s not fun just to keep losing games.”

Flagg is averaging 14.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.1 steals per game this season.