Mavericks and Warriors Clash as Aging Stars Struggle

Both teams have lost 8 of their last 10 games, but the Mavericks are losing the "right way"

Mar. 23, 2026 at 11:07am

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The Dallas Mavericks (23-48) will host the Golden State Warriors (33-38) on Monday night in a matchup of two teams heading in different directions. The Mavericks, led by veterans like PJ Washington and Daniel Gafford, are competing hard despite their record, while the Warriors have struggled without the injured Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler. The game features a clash of philosophies, as the Mavericks aim to develop young talent while remaining competitive, while the Warriors' reliance on aging stars like Curry has come at a cost.

Why it matters

This game highlights the challenges facing teams with aging superstars, as the Warriors have learned the hard way with Curry's injury struggles. The Mavericks, meanwhile, are taking a more measured approach, prioritizing development over short-term wins, which could pay dividends in the long run.

The details

The Mavericks are currently sitting in a prime draft position, but they are not engaging in any tanking tactics. Instead, they are playing a competitive rotation and getting strong performances from players like PJ Washington and Daniel Gafford. The Warriors, on the other hand, have struggled mightily without Curry, going just 6-13 in his absence. Their decision to acquire Jimmy Butler last season in an attempt to extend Curry's championship window has also backfired, as both players have suffered significant injuries.

  • The Mavericks and Warriors game tips off at 8:30 PM CT on Monday, March 23, 2026.
  • Stephen Curry has been sidelined since January 30 with a runner's knee injury.
  • Four years ago, the Mavericks and Warriors faced off in the 2022 Western Conference Finals.

The players

Stephen Curry

A 37-year-old superstar for the Golden State Warriors who is currently sidelined with a runner's knee injury.

Jimmy Butler

A veteran player for the Golden State Warriors who is also out with an injury.

Draymond Green

A key player for the Golden State Warriors who will be relied upon heavily in the absence of Curry and Butler.

PJ Washington

A veteran player for the Dallas Mavericks who has been averaging 14.6 points and 6.9 rebounds since the start of March.

Daniel Gafford

A player for the Dallas Mavericks who scored 24 points in 22 minutes against Atlanta last Wednesday.

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What’s next

Stephen Curry is expected to return as early as Wednesday, but tonight's game in Dallas is likely one of his last absences.

The takeaway

This game highlights the challenges facing teams with aging superstars, as the Warriors have learned the hard way with Curry's injury struggles. The Mavericks, meanwhile, are taking a more measured approach, prioritizing development over short-term wins, which could pay dividends in the long run.