DALLAS — Luka Doncic, the standout player for the Dallas Mavericks, is expected to be sidelined for approximately a month due to a calf injury incurred during a Christmas Day match against the Minnesota Timberwolves, according to a source with close knowledge of the situation. This information came to light on Friday following an MRI that evaluated the extent of his strained left calf. The source requested anonymity since official details regarding the injury have not yet been disclosed.
The anticipated absence from play is likely to eliminate Doncic from contention for major accolades this season, including the MVP award. Before this injury, Doncic had already missed eight games, five of which were due to a sprained right wrist. His latest setback occurred during the second quarter of a challenging game where the Mavericks fell 105-99 to the Timberwolves. While executing an offensive play, Doncic felt discomfort and was unable to make it back to the defensive side of the floor, ultimately heading to the locker room following a timeout.
During the forthcoming month, the Mavericks are set to compete in 17 games, commencing with a matchup against Phoenix on Friday night. Prior to his injury, Doncic was delivering impressive statistics, ranking sixth in the league with an average of 28.1 points per game, along with 8.3 rebounds and 7.8 assists.
Should his recovery extend to 25 games, it would surpass the instituted maximum of 15 games missed for players to remain eligible for significant awards. Doncic’s most extended absence in a single season was 17 games during the 2021-22 season prior to the new participation regulations.
This injury occurred in Doncic’s second game back following a two-game absence due to a heel contusion, raising concerns as he has previously experienced left calf issues. He has missed substantial time in the past, including various portions of the last two offseasons and the initial three games of the 2022 playoffs.
As the Mavericks currently hold fourth place in the Western Conference, they have demonstrated resilience, going 6-2 in games without Doncic this season. A significant factor in this success is Kyrie Irving, who has stepped up and averages 24 points per game during Doncic’s time away from the court.
In the offseason, Dallas bolstered their roster by acquiring four-time NBA champion Klay Thompson from Golden State, whose three-point shooting ability aids the team in filling the void left by Doncic’s absence. Additionally, Spencer Dinwiddie, who played a crucial role during the Mavericks’ surprising playoff run in 2022, has returned to the team and will see increased playing time as the squad adjusts to life without the Slovenian star.
Naji Marshall, another new addition to the Mavericks, showcased his scoring capabilities by hitting at least 20 points in each of the first four games Doncic missed due to his wrist injury. Despite dealing with recent illness that caused him to miss several games, Marshall has returned to the lineup during the last four games.
