With the news that starting center Dereck Lively II will be out for 2-3 months, the Mavericks are trying to avoid free-fall after losing nine of their last 12 games. With an important matchup against the Timberwolves looming,

Boston’s starting five is finding cohesion, and its defense stifled Golden State. The Celtics’ ability to stay consistent will be tested against the Clippers, who sit fifth in the Western Conference standings and sport a 15-7 record at the Intuit Dome.

The Celtics had to sweat out an overtime win over the Clippers on Wednesday, but wouldn't have done it without Jaden Springer and his defensive intensity.

NBA games are scheduled to return to wildfire-ravaged Los Angeles on Monday night, with the Clippers planning to resume their schedule when they host the Miami Heat and the Lakers set to host Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs.

Jaylen Brown scored 25 points, Jayson Tatum added 24 and the Boston Celtics rallied past the Los Angeles Clippers 117-113 in overtime when both teams were missing key players.

Jrue holiday received a big injury update for the Celtics' game on Wednesday night against the Clippers on the road.

The Dallas Mavericks and Charlotte Hornets kick off an early slate of NBA games on Martin Luther King Day with a noon ET tip at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte.

Here are the latest predictions, probable starting lineups, and injury updates for the upcoming Dallas Mavericks vs. Denver Nuggets game.

Given that schedule, the Celtics also chose a cautious approach with several of their veterans. Jrue Holiday (shoulder), Kristaps Porzingis (illness) and Al Horford (big toe) all were ruled out against the Clippers after being listed as questionable.

Get real-time NBA basketball coverage and scores as Boston Celtics takes on Los Angeles Clippers. We bring you the latest game previews, live stats, and recaps on CBSSports.com

The Mavericks have reported trade interest in defensive ace Herb Jones, which could signal their NBA deadline priorities.