GAME THREAD: Dallas Mavericks versus Charlotte Hornets

WHO: Dallas Mavericks versus Charlotte Hornets

WHAT: A chance for the Mavericks to sweep the regular-season series against the Hornets.

WHEN: 7:30pm Central

WHERE: American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX

HOW: Fox Sports Southwest, Fox Sports GO or NBA League Pass

THE STORY: The Dallas Mavericks have gone on a four-game losing streak since improbably winning three of four games earlier in the month, even managing to drop a close one to the very bad Brooklyn Nets on the strength of a 17-point fourth quarter. Tonight they’ll face the Hornets for the final time this season.

The big story tonight is the return of Dennis Smith Jr. following a two-game absence due to an ankle injury. Other than long-term injuries, the Mavericks will be at full-strength. The Hornets will most certainly not. Tonight they’ll be missing Nicolas Batum thanks to a recent Achilles injury and Michael Carter-Williams, who is out for the season after recently undergoing shoulder surgery. They may also be without Cody Zeller and Malik Monk.

Dwight Howard (who recently returned from a one-game suspension after receiving his 16th technical foul this season) has been feasting in the post lately, though, so the Mavericks may still have their work cut out for them.