Mavericks vs. Pelicans Tuesday NBA injury report, odds shift: Zion Williamson, Herbert Jones join Brandon Ingram as ruled out

The two players who took the most betting action entering the season at Caesars Sportsbook to win NBA MVP were the Mavericks' Luka Doncic and Pelicans' Zion Williamson. Their teams meet tonight in New Orleans, but unfortunately Williamson has been ruled out due to injury along with fellow New Orleans starters Brandon Ingram and Herbert Jones. That has shifted Dallas from a 4-point favorite to -6 at Caesars Sportsbook.

Ingram is in concussion protocol and  was ruled out Monday. In the first quarter of Sunday's home loss to Utah, Ingram collided with teammate Naji Marshall as the two went up to attempt to steal a pass. Ingram actually re-entered the game briefly but then went to the locker room and didn't return. He will have to clear a series of steps to ensure he is symptom-free before resuming basketball activities. The 25-year-old is averaging 22.0 points, 5.7 rebounds and 4.0 assists.

Williamson and Jones were both originally listed as questionable but will sit. Williamson suffered a posterior hip and low back contusion after falling awkwardly during a dunk attempt against the Jazz. He's such a good player but just can't stay on the court. The 22-year-old is averaging 22.0 points and 6.7 rebounds.

Jones is one of the best defenders in the NBA, so that Doncic doesn't have to deal with him is a huge advantage. The second-year player banged knees with a Utah player on Sunday and has a hyperextension of his right knee. Jones, a second-round steal in the 2021 draft, is averaging just 7.3 points and 3.3 rebounds but his value is on the defensive end. It's hard to say who might now start for New Orleans alongside guard CJ McCollum and center Jonas Valanciunas.

Dallas will be likely be without a key reserve tonight. Swingman Tim Hardaway Jr. is doubtful with right foot soreness. He's averaging 12.5 points per game.

The Mavericks have won nine of their past 11 vs. the Pelicans. Doncic is averaging 29.1 points (.488 FG%, .387 3FG%), 9.2 rebounds and 8.4 assists in 14 career games in the series. He has posted at least 20 points, five rebounds and five assists in 11 of those 14. Dallas is 9-2 all-time when he goes for 20-5-5 against New Orleans.

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