Injuries Headline Mavs - Lakers Matchup

Already being an injury plagued season, it just seems to be getting worse for every team in the NBA. With the All-Star Break still weeks away, it still couldn't have been coming at a better time. Players like Yao Ming and Michael Redd, both have already seen their seasons come to a quick halt.

The great State of Texas has not been too kind to the Los Angeles Lakers recently.

As they make a trip to Dallas to face off against the Southwest Division leading Dallas Mavericks, they may very well be without two of their finest players.

A night after getting embarrassed in San Antonio, by a score of 105-85, L.A. Fans held their breath late in the third quarter, as Kobe Bryant left the game due to back spasms (remember he is also nursing an injured right index finger and will be playing with a splint in that finger). Pau Gasol missed the game with a hamstring injury, he is listed as day-to-day, he will most likely miss tonight's game.

On the other side of the court, the Dallas Mavericks too have their fair share of injuries. After missing one game due to a left thigh bruise, Josh Howard should make his return tonight.

Drew Gooden though is listed as questionable with a dislocated right finger.

Erick Dampier and Tim Thomas are also both listed as questionable.

Dampier missed the forgettable 131-96 loss in Los Angeles, and it showed how important he is to the team.

Eduardo Najera fans will have to wait to see him in action, as he is listed as doubtful.

Injuries or no injuries, the Dallas Mavericks will be hungry for a win tonight. There is no doubt their shameful performance in L.A is still hanging in their minds. Dirk Nowitzki should, and will step up tonight as he is only 16 points aways from reaching the 20,000 point milestone. 

The Mavs have already shown the NBA they are an elite team, and overcoming injuries will only reinforce that. 

Tip-off is a 7:30PM, the game can be seen on TXA21.

Mavs-Lakers Series:

Friday, October 30th

Dallas 94

Los Angeles 80

Sunday, January 3rd

Dallas 96

Los Angeles 131