Luka Dončić is managing a left calf injury he suffered during the second quarter of the Dallas Mavericks’ 105-99 loss against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday afternoon. The injury occurred when Dončić planted awkwardly while driving to the basket, and he was seen limping noticeably before exiting the game.
With a left calf strain designation, Dončić is officially listed as out on the Mavericks’ injury report for Friday’s matchup against the Phoenix Suns. The team did not hold a formal practice on Thursday as part of their preparation for the back-to-back road games, but Dončić underwent an MRI to determine the full extent of the injury.
It remains to be seen how long Dončić will be sidelined or the precise severity of the strain. More information will become available based on the results of the imaging. For now, the Mavericks are expected to take a cautious approach given Dončić’s importance to the team’s long-term success and postseason ambitions.
Dončić isn’t the only Mavericks player who sustained an injury on Wednesday. Dereck Lively II is questionable to play against the Suns due to a left hip contusion. He was visibly bothered by the injury late in the fourth quarter after a hard fall, but fought through the discomfort to finish the game. His status will likely be determined closer to tipoff.
Additionally, Danté Exum remains sidelined as he continues his rehabilitation from right wrist surgery. The procedure was performed after Exum suffered the injury during training camp. His return could help shore up the Mavericks’ depleted backcourt rotation, depending on how long Dončić remains unavailable.
The Mavericks did receive some positive news as Jaden Hardy and Brandon Williams were both removed from the injury report. Hardy was active on Christmas Day, even though he did not play. Both players are expected to be available to provide depth, especially if Dallas needs additional guard minutes behind Kyrie Irving and Spencer Dinwiddie.
With a critical portion of the schedule upcoming, the Mavericks will be monitoring injuries closely as they look to maintain momentum. Check back with DallasHoopsJournal.com for the latest updates on Mavericks injuries throughout the season.
