Dallas Mavericks’ star player Luka Doncic is set to face an extended period on the sidelines after suffering a calf injury during a match against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Christmas Day.
Doncic’s injury was confirmed following an MRI scan, which revealed a strain in his left calf. This setback marks another instance in his growing history of leg-related issues, following a heel contusion that previously kept him out of action.
The injury occurred during the second quarter of the game against the Timberwolves, where Doncic attempted an offensive move before needing to be helped to the locker room. This occurs as Doncic was making a comeback after missing two earlier games due to a left heel injury.
In addition to missing playing time, Doncic’s extended absence is likely to impact his eligibility for major awards, including the Most Valuable Player (MVP) title, as he will surpass the maximum of 15 games missed allowed under the current participation rules.
The Dallas Mavericks will have to navigate a challenging schedule with 17 games over the next month without their key player. The team, however, has shown resilience in Doncic’s absence this season, boasting a 6-2 record when he doesn’t play.
Kyrie Irving and Klay Thompson are expected to shoulder more of the scoring responsibilities. Irving has proven to be a reliable force, averaging 24 points per game in Doncic’s absence. Meanwhile, Thompson’s addition as a four-time NBA champion offers the team significant depth, particularly with his prowess in three-point shooting.
Spencer Dinwiddie, who rejoined Dallas in the offseason, is also anticipated to play a pivotal role, capitalizing on his experience from the 2022 Western Conference Finals.
Naji Marshall has similarly stepped up, demonstrating consistent performance with at least 20 points scored in the initial games Doncic missed due to a wrist sprain.
Luka Doncic’s month-long hiatus serves as a significant challenge for the Dallas Mavericks, demanding strategic adjustments and increased contributions from other team members to maintain their competitive standing.
Source: Local10
