Dallas Mavericks Injury Report: Key starter joins team's lengthy injury list for game against Cavaliers (Jan. 3)

The Dallas Mavericks will face the league-leading Cleveland Cavaliers in a crunch regular season matchup on Friday. The Mavericks have been grappling with a slew of injuries, with several key players sidelined in recent games.

Superstar Luka Doncic remains out with the left calf strain he sustained during the Christmas Day game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Additionally, coach Jason Kidd has had to navigate the absences of Kyrie Irving, Klay Thompson and Dereck Lively II in recent outings.

As Dallas prepares for the challenge of facing the Cavaliers, who boast an impressive 29-4 record, the availability of P.J. Washington is a significant concern.

Washington, a vital member of the Mavericks' starting lineup, suffered a right knee sprain during the team's 110-99 loss to the Houston Rockets on Wednesday. He exited the game after logging just 16 minutes and is listed as "questionable" on the team's injury report for Friday's game.

Maxi Kleber is also "questionable" due to a right oblique strain. Meanwhile, Doncic, Naji Marshall (suspension) and Dante Exum (right wrist surgery) remain sidelined, adding to Dallas’ injury woes ahead of their matchup with Cleveland.

The Mavericks currently hold the fifth spot in the Western Conference standings with a 20-14 record through 34 games. However, the team has hit a rough patch recently, dropping four of their last five games. The string of injuries sidelining key players has been a significant factor contributing to their recent struggles.

How to watch Dallas Mavericks vs. Cleveland Cavaliers?

The Dallas Mavericks vs. Cleveland Cavaliers game will take place on Friday, Jan. 3, at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. The game will tip off at 8:30 p.m. EST (5:30 p.m. PT).

The Mavericks vs. Cavaliers game will be broadcast live on KFAA (local) and FanDuel Sports Network - Ohio (local) while the live streaming will be available on the NBA League Pass and Fubo TV app and website (regional restrictions may apply).