Bad news for Dallas Mavericks fans: Luka Doncic is expected to be out for an extended period of time.
The Dallas Mavericks lost to the Minnesota Timberwolves (99-105) in a game where they trailed by as much as 28 points but came close to an incredible comeback, cutting the deficit to just two points with a little over a minute left. However, the loss was overshadowed by a bigger blow: the injury of their star player, Luka Doncic.
Doncic, who already came into the game dealing with some discomfort, had to leave for the locker room with 2:31 remaining in the second quarter. He injured his left leg after landing awkwardly following a fake and did not return to the game.
Initial reports indicate that Doncic suffered a muscle strain in his left calf. While a more detailed assessment will come after an MRI scheduled for Thursday, sources told ESPN that the former Real Madrid star might be sidelined for “an extended period of time.”
Before leaving due to the injury, Luka Doncic had been performing as usual during his 16 minutes on the court, contributing 14 points (2/4 on two-pointers, 3/5 on three-pointers, and 3/5 on free throws), 5 rebounds, and 2 assists. His absence left the team devastated.
“It’s painful for all of us,” said Kyrie Irving, the Mavericks’ co-star, who scored 39 points in Doncic’s absence. “I’m praying for Luka to recover quickly. No matter how long it takes, we’ll have to adapt. It’s the nature of the business. Hopefully, he’ll take his time and return when he’s ready.”
