Lakers Get Key Injury Boost as Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart Near Return vs. Mavericks

The Los Angeles Lakers have navigated a wave of early-season injuries, yet they still stand at 13–4, mirroring the poise and resilience of the 2010–11 squad that opened the year as back-to-back champions. With momentum building and roster health improving, tonight’s showdown with the Dallas Mavericks could be a pivotal moment.

After missing LeBron James for an extended stretch, Los Angeles has leaned on its depth and star power to stay near the top of the Western Conference. And now, they may be inching closer to full strength again.

🔄 Ayton and Smart Close to Returning for Lakers

Ahead of their final NBA Cup group-stage game, the Lakers’ injury report delivered welcome news: Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart are trending toward availability.

Ayton, sidelined with a right knee contusion, is officially listed as probable to play. His size, rebounding, and interior presence would offer a major boost to L.A.’s frontcourt — especially with Anthony Davis pushing for a return against his former team.

Meanwhile, Smart, who has been dealing with back spasms, is listed as questionable. If his condition improves before tip-off, the Lakers could regain one of their most versatile defenders and emotional leaders. Even without him, Los Angeles has held firm rotationally, but Smart’s presence unlocks defensive schemes few teams can replicate.

With both players trending in the right direction, JJ Redick will have his deepest rotation in weeks — a valuable advantage in a game that could determine group positioning.

📊 Lakers Enter as Heavy Favorites

Given the contrasting starts to the season, the Lakers enter tonight’s matchup as clear favorites. Dallas has been battling injuries, inconsistency, and a tough early schedule.

Still, this contest will have an added layer of intrigue: Luka Dončić facing the Mavericks in another emotionally loaded chapter following his blockbuster trade in February. Dončić has shown no hesitation rising to the moment, and tonight should be no different.

Even with L.A. favored, the NBA has already proven unpredictable this season — and no team can afford to take a night off.

If the Lakers indeed regain Ayton, Smart, and Davis together, this could be the moment their roster finally stabilizes — and their ceiling begins to rise.