Dallas Mavericks star guard Luka Doncic could be out 'for an extended period of time' ESPN coverage.
The current leading scorer suffered what appeared to be a calf injury when he landed on his left foot during the second quarter of the Mavericks' 105-99 loss to the Timberwolves on Wednesday.
Doncic was seen using crutches as he left the arena, and ESPN reports that he will undergo an MRI on his calf on Thursday.
It is suspected that the eternal All-Star may have strained a muscle, but the severity of the injury and how long he will have to be sidelined due to the injury is unknown at this time.
“It certainly stings for all of us.” Kyrie Irving told reporters After the match. “I wish Luka a speedy recovery no matter how long the schedule is. Adjustments have to be made. It's just the nature of business. Hopefully he takes his time and returns when he's ready. He will come.”
With his co-stars out for the entire second half, Irving led the Mavericks back into contention down the stretch, erasing a 28-point deficit in the second half.
It was a one-possession game until the very end, but the Timberwolves managed to escape and win.
Irving had 26 points, including 15 in the final frame, but missed a shot from behind the arc with about 36 seconds left that could have given Dallas the lead.
“We put ourselves in the right position [to win]” said the head coach. jason kidd said With his post game presser. “[Irving] “I got a good look at the 3 shot. It was short, but I'll take that shot all day long.”
It hurts to lose 15-14 to the Timberwolves, but Doncic's injury overshadows every number in the box score.
In his seventh NBA season, the five-time All-NBA selection is averaging 28.6 points, 8.7 rebounds and 8.3 assists per game.
Thanks to the one-two punch of him and Irving, helped in no small part by the clinical shooting of rookie Klay Thompson, Dallas posted a 19-11 record, good for fourth place in the Western Conference.
The Mavericks have weathered the storm without Doncic for parts of the season so far.
The former Rookie of the Year has missed a total of eight games due to injuries including bruised knees and a sprained wrist.
Doncic is also no stranger to calf injuries.
He missed training camp and the preseason due to a bruise.
This is the second recent calf injury he has sustained, and Wednesday's injury appears to be the third.
“Hopefully this will be his last.” [injury]” Kidd said. “I hope it's not too serious.”
