Mavericks Get Positive Update on Luka Doncic's Ankle Injury
The Dallas Mavericks are fighting atop the Western Conference thanks to the fantastic play of Luka Doncic. That is why it was so alarming when he went down with an ankle injury Saturday night.
Fans may have feared the worst, and while Doncic is indeed going to face a stint on the sideline, ESPN's Tim MacMahon reports he won't miss significant time.
Luka Doncic might be able to return within a couple of weeks after suffering a moderate right ankle sprain last night, sources told ESPN. Doncic likely misses upcoming stretch vs. East power (Bucks, Celtics, 76ers and Raptors this week), but Mavs feel they dodged a bullet.
— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) December 15, 2019
That should allow Mavericks fans, and Mark Cuban, to breath huge sighs of relief. The team needs Doncic healthy to remain title contenders, and even playing .500 basketball while he is out will keep the team on pace for one of the top spots in the conference.
Yet even if he is ready in two weeks, the Mavericks would be wise not to rush Doncic back into action. He is too valuable to the team to have a nagging injury so early in the season.
List of players with the most 30-5-5 games this season:
— Kevin Keneely (@KevinKeneely1) December 16, 2019
1. James Harden (13)
2. Luka Doncic (11)
3. TRAE YOUNG (7)
4. Giannis Antetokounmpo (6)
LeBron James (6) pic.twitter.com/MzO3Ht0NCW
The 20-year-old is averaging 29.3 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 8.9 assists so far this season. He has emerged as one of the best players in basketball and should be for well over the next decade. Rushing him back into action would be a grave mistake for the Mavs.
Kristaps Porzingis will look to shoulder the load on offense for the Mavericks while Doncic is out with the injury.