Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will play for the Oklahoma City Thunder in their March 1, 2026 game against the Dallas Mavericks. He recently returned after missing nine games with an abdominal strain and is not listed with any restriction going into this matchup.In his first game back, Gilgeous-Alexander delivered a strong performance against Denver. He scored 36 points and added nine assists, helping Oklahoma City win in overtime. His return gives the Thunder their main offensive option as they continue their push at the top of the standings.
Oklahoma City Thunder hold clear edge over injury-hit Mavericks
Oklahoma City Thunder come into this game with a 46-15 record and leads the Northwest Division. Dallas is 21-38 and continues to deal with multiple injuries across the roster.The Thunder have been the better team in this matchup, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has consistently performed well against Dallas in past games. With the Mavericks missing several key players, Oklahoma City has a clear advantage going into this contest.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s injury status vs Dallas Mavericks (March 1, 2026)
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander sat out nine straight games because of an abdominal strain. In his return, he handled full minutes and showed no visible issues.The latest injury report lists him as available with no limitations. He is expected to be part of the starting group alongside Chet Holmgren, Luguentz Dort, and Cason Wallace.
Oklahoma City Thunder injury report (March 1, 2026)
The Oklahoma City Thunder are largely healthy, but a few players remain out.
| Player | Status | Injury Details |
| Jalen Williams | Out | Right hamstring strain |
| Branden Carlson | Out | Low back strain |
| Ajay Mitchell | Out | Abdominal strain/left ankle sprain |
| Thomas Sorber | Out | Right ACL surgical recovery |
| Nikola Topic | Out | G League on assignment |
Jalen Williams has been out since mid-February with a hamstring injury. His absence has led to more minutes for Aaron Wiggins and Isaiah Joe.
Dallas Mavericks continue to deal with multiple injuries
Dallas is still missing several players, with others not certain to play.
| Player | Status | Injury Details |
| Cooper Flagg | Out | Left midfoot sprain |
| Kyrie Irving | Out | Left knee surgery |
| Dereck Lively II | Out | Right foot surgery |
| Marvin Bagley III | Out | Neck sprain |
| Naji Marshall | Doubtful | Right finger contusion |
| P.J. Washington | Doubtful | Left ankle sprain |
| Miles Kelly | Out | Not with team |
| Moussa Cisse | Questionable | G League two-way |
| Caleb Martin | Probable | Low back soreness |
Cooper Flagg remains out with a midfoot sprain. Kyrie Irving is also unavailable after undergoing knee surgery. With more players listed as doubtful or questionable, Dallas is working with a short rotation.
What to expect from this matchup
Also read: Is Cooper Flagg playing tonight vs the Oklahoma City Thunder? Latest update on the Dallas Mavericks star’s injury report (March 1, 2026)With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander back, Oklahoma City has its main scorer available. He is likely to take on a large share of the offense against a weakened Dallas backcourt.Chet Holmgren could also have an impact inside against Dallas bigs such as Daniel Gafford and Dwight Powell. If the Mavericks are without their doubtful players, Oklahoma City’s second unit, including Alex Caruso and Cason Wallace, may have a larger role as the game goes on.