The Golden State Warriors' playoff prospects dimmed with a 109-99 loss to the Dallas Mavericks.

Injuries to key players pose significant challenges for the Warriors' playoff positioning.

The Warriors are now trailing the Mavericks by 3 1/2 games in the Play-In bracket standings.

Risk of losing tiebreakers adds to the Warriors' precarious situation against competing teams.

A tough schedule with 17 remaining games, including matchups with the Lakers and Mavericks, complicates the Warriors' efforts to climb the rankings.

The current trajectory suggests the Warriors may face two elimination games in their bid for a playoff spot.