The Dallas Mavericks are playing the Phoenix Suns for the third time this season and are looking to get their first win of the year against their Western Conference rivals. However, both teams will be without some of their biggest stars, including the two who fuel the rivalry.

Luka Doncic suffered a left calf strain in Wednesday’s Christmas game against the Minnesota Timberwolves and will be reevaluated in a month. With him out for at least the next 16 games, it’s up to Kyrie Irving to carry the load.

READ MORE: Luka Doncic’s Mavericks recovery timeline revealed from recent injury

Only two other Mavericks are on the injury report. Dereck Lively II is questionable with a left hip contusion that he may have sustained late in Wednesday’s game when Mike Conley ran through him to retrieve a “loose” ball. Dante Exum will miss preseason after right wrist surgery but is close to his expected return date in three months.

After being available for Wednesday’s game but not playing, Jaden Hardy is officially off the injury report. He had missed six games with an ankle injury. Brandon Williams is also no longer listed on the injury report.

The Suns will be without several key players, including Devin Booker, who is suffering from a groin strain. This will be his fourth straight game missed. Grayson Allen will be out as he waits to clear concussion protocol, and Bol Bol is out with a bruised left knee.

READ MORE: Mavericks at Suns: How to watch, TV, time, odds and preview

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