Even with the expected return of Elton Brand on Monday night, the Philadelphia 76ers could have a difficult time ending their woes during their current four-game road trip.

Facing the Dallas Mavericks doesn’t help either.

With Brand slated to end a three-game absence due to injury, the 76ers will try to avoid a seventh straight loss when they take on the Southwest Division leaders.

Eastern Conference

–Without Elton Brand (sore right hamstring) for the third game in a row, head coach Eddie Jordan opted for a smaller lineup against the Spurs. He moved 7-footer Jason Smith to the bench, with Andre Iguodala and Thaddeus Young sliding over from shooting guard and small forward to the three and four spots, and Willie Green stepping in at shooting guard. Iguodala ended up playing more than usual at the point, especially in the second half.