Aldama sits again, but Dallas says his debut is very close

What changed

Santi Aldama did not make his Mavericks debut in San Antonio. Dallas moved him from questionable to doubtful Wednesday afternoon and then ruled him out before the game as he continued returning from right knee surgery.

Dusty May said Aldama is “very, very close.” That is the clearest public sign yet that the forward’s return is approaching, but it is not a debut date or a minutes projection. Friday’s home game against Utah is simply his next opportunity to be available.

May also said Tarik Biberović looked good while warming up, though the coach did not give an exact timeline for his return from right heel bursitis. Max Christie remained out with right hip soreness and tightness.

Interpretation: Aldama’s brief upgrade to questionable and his participation in shootaround show forward movement. Until Dallas lists him active, the responsible read is progress—not a promise.

Updated November 5, 2026

Updated after tipoff: Santi Aldama was downgraded from questionable to doubtful and then ruled out. Dusty May said Aldama is “very, very close,” but Dallas has not announced a debut date.