Anthony Davis Injury Update: Will Mavericks Star Return vs. Grizzlies on Friday?

Dallas Mavericks forward Anthony Davis has been upgraded to “doubtful” ahead of Friday night’s matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies. Davis has missed the last three games with a calf strain, but the latest status marks a small step forward in his recovery.

The Mavericks are desperate for good news as they enter a crucial stretch of the season. Both teams have struggled early, combining for just five wins, and Dallas could use Davis’s return to stabilize its frontcourt.

Anthony Davis Injury Details and Latest Team Update

Davis initially suffered the calf strain during a game against the Indiana Pacers last week. Before that, he had been managing bilateral Achilles tendinopathy, a lingering issue that has limited his availability. Team insiders say the strain came after Davis arrived at training camp slightly out of shape, which increased the load on his legs early in the season.

On Thursday, the Mavericks officially changed his injury designation from “out” to “doubtful,” signaling progress. With this being the first game of a back-to-back set, Dallas is expected to take a cautious approach. According to multiple reports, the team believes he’s more likely to make his return on Saturday against the Washington Wizards rather than risk aggravation on Friday.

Head coach Jason Kidd has emphasized that the team will prioritize long-term health over short-term results. Davis has averaged 21.3 points and 10.1 rebounds in the games he’s played so far, proving his value even in limited appearances.

Full Mavericks and Grizzlies Injury Reports

The Mavericks’ injury list remains lengthy. Center Dereck Lively II continues to miss time with a right knee sprain, which Kidd described as “week-to-week.” Guard Dante Exum is also out with ongoing knee management, and star guard Kyrie Irving remains sidelined as he recovers from ACL surgery. The organization hopes Irving can return before the end of 2025, though no official timetable has been released.

For Memphis, forward Brandon Clarke (right knee surgery recovery), rookie center Zach Edey (left ankle surgery recovery), guard Ty Jerome (right calf sprain), and Scotty Pippen Jr. (left great toe surgery recovery) are all unavailable. Clarke’s health continues to be a concern for the Grizzlies, while Edey’s recovery remains delicate given his 7-foot-4 frame.

What Davis’s Return Means for Dallas

If Anthony Davis can suit up this weekend, it could be a major morale boost for a Mavericks squad struggling for consistency. The offense has lacked interior scoring and defensive stability without him. His presence in the paint can free up Luka Dončić and give the team a stronger defensive anchor.

Dallas sits near the bottom of the Western Conference standings, and Davis’s eventual return could shift their early-season trajectory. For now, his upgrade to “doubtful” is a sign that he’s close to being back — possibly as soon as Saturday.

Anthony Davis’s injury update gives Dallas fans hope heading into the weekend, even if his full return may still be days away. The Mavericks will continue to monitor his progress before making a final call against Memphis.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Is Anthony Davis playing against the Grizzlies?

As of Friday, Davis is listed as “doubtful” for the Mavericks-Grizzlies game, meaning a return is unlikely but not impossible.

Q2: When could Anthony Davis return for the Mavericks?

Reports suggest Davis may have a better chance to play on Saturday against the Washington Wizards if he continues to improve.

Q3: What injury is Anthony Davis dealing with?

He’s recovering from a calf strain sustained against the Pacers, on top of ongoing Achilles tendinopathy issues.

Q4: How has Anthony Davis performed this season?

Before the injury, Davis averaged 21.3 points and 10.1 rebounds per game for Dallas, showing All-Star-level production when healthy.

Q5: Who else is injured for the Mavericks?

Dereck Lively II, Dante Exum, and Kyrie Irving are all out, while Davis remains doubtful for Friday night.