GAME THREAD: Dallas Mavericks at New Orleans Pelicans

WHO: Dallas Mavericks vs New Orleans Pelicans

WHAT: The second night of a back-to-back

WHERE: Smoothie King Arena, New Orleans, LA

WHEN: 8:00 p.m. CST

HOW: Fox Sports SW, NBA League Pass

THE STORY: This is the Mavericks' first game of five straight on the road. By the time this road stretch is over, Dallas will have played eight of their last nine games away from home. Tonight, the Mavericks are without a slew of players. Luka Doncic (illness), Kristaps Porzingis (right knee, injury recovery), JJ Redick (right heel soreness), Tyrell Terry (personal reasons), Willie Cauley-Stein (health and safety protocols) are all out for this contest.

It could be a long night for Maxi Kleber and Dorian Finney-Smith, who will have to defend Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. It’s not an impossible feat for two guys that are reliable defenders, but they also both played around 33 minutes just last night.

This will be just the second time Dallas has played the Pelicans this season. Remember the first time? The Mavericks scored 143 points, a season-high. Doncic had 46 points and 12 assists, while Kristaps Porzingis scored 36 behind an 8-of-13 shooting performance from the three-point line. Tonight, they’ll have to find a way to win with a short bench.

Talk amongst yourselves. Remember to be kind and have fun.