Mavericks to Host Thunder on Wednesday
The Oklahoma City Thunder visit Dallas for a game amid multiple player injury absences.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Basketball
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The Dallas Mavericks will host the Oklahoma City Thunder this Wednesday, October 28. The Thunder enter the matchup riding a four-game winning streak to start the season.
Why it matters
The Thunder are navigating a critical roster challenge as several key starters are unavailable due to recent injuries. A win on Wednesday would make Oklahoma City the first team to win their first five games in three consecutive seasons.
Ajay Mitchell scored 30 points in the recent 125-114 victory over Phoenix, while Cooper Flagg recorded 29 points, 11 assists, and five steals against Miami. The Thunder are currently undefeated through their first four games.
The players
Cooper Flagg
He is a rising basketball standout who recently recorded a high-impact double-double with five steals.
Ajay Mitchell
He is a key contributor for the Thunder who recently logged a 30-point performance.
Chet Holmgren
He is a prominent Thunder center who is sidelined for a second straight game due to a right knee injury.
Kyrie Irving
He is a star guard for the Dallas Mavericks who is listed as questionable for the Wednesday matchup.
The details
Oklahoma City faces significant personnel hurdles with Jalen Williams and Cason Wallace sidelined with season-threatening injuries sustained against the Clippers. Chet Holmgren, Alex Caruso, and Sergio De Larrea are also unavailable for the contest against Dallas.
Timeline
October 25: Jalen Williams and Cason Wallace sustained injuries.
October 26: The Mavericks and Thunder recorded wins against Miami and Phoenix.
October 28: The Mavericks host the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Season Trajectory
The Thunder are attempting to reach a milestone tied to the NBA's three consecutive season 5-0 start record. A win would cement their status as an early-season powerhouse despite the sudden depletion of their starting lineup.
With Jalen Williams and Cason Wallace potentially out for the season, the Thunder will rely heavily on their depth to maintain their undefeated record. Fantasy managers should monitor the rotation closely as players move into starting roles to cover the injured starters.
The takeaway
The Thunder must prove their depth can survive a series of critical injuries to maintain their perfect start. Readers should watch how the rotation adjusts to fill the significant production void left by multiple sidelined starters.
Further reading
For more on upcoming matchups, visit the Basketball page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Deadspin.
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