The NBA landscape shifted dramatically when the Dallas Mavericks traded All-NBA star Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers for Anthony Davis and a first-round pick. Initially perceived as a win for the Lakers, this trade is becoming even more favorable for them as Doncic has propelled the Lakers to the second seed in the West, averaging 28.6 points and 9.2 rebounds over the last five games. In stark contrast, the Mavericks are facing a season filled with injuries, with recent news that Olivier-Maxence Prosper will undergo season-ending wrist surgery.

The Mavericks' struggles are amplified as they have already been dealing with multiple injuries that have sidelined key players. Prosper's increased usage over the past month, averaging 5.9 points in 16.3 minutes, highlights the impact of his absence. Dallas is set to face the Memphis Grizzlies, both teams currently on losing streaks, which could add further pressure to already strained rosters.