Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving are questionable as the Mavericks face the Trail Blazers without Dereck Lively II, Naji Marshall, and Klay Thompson.
PORTLAND — The Dallas Mavericks are set to face the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday night, with Luka Dončić officially listed as questionable on the injury report due to a right wrist sprain. His return would be a welcomed boost for a team playing on the second night of a back-to-back with a lengthy injury report filled with key players, including Kyrie Irving, Dereck Lively II, Klay Thompson, and Naji Marshall.
In addition to Dončić, the Mavericks’ injury report includes several other notable absences. Irving, who has been managing right shoulder soreness, is also questionable. Lively (right knee hyperextension), Marshall (illness), Thompson (left plantar fascia), and Danté Exum (right wrist surgery) have all been ruled out.
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Marshall, who was listed as questionable before Saturday’s game due to an upper respiratory illness, did not play against the Jazz after halftime. Lively’s absence will leave the Mavericks particularly thin in the frontcourt, emphasizing the importance of a collective defensive effort against Portland.
Mavericks Continue to Overcome Injuries
Despite the challenges, the Mavericks have excelled during Dončić’s absence, posting a 5-1 record. Much of their success has been driven by Irving, who has averaged 25.7 points, 6.5 assists, and 5.3 rebounds over the past six games. Irving’s ability to lead the team on both ends of the floor has helped Dallas maintain its momentum.
Quentin Grimes has also stepped up, delivering a season-high 24 points against the Jazz while becoming a consistent two-way presence. Over his last nine games, Grimes has averaged 12.3 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 2.4 assists.
“He’s one of the best in this league for a reason,” Grimes said of Dončić. “Getting him back makes our job easier. He draws so much gravity down the court, and that opens things up for me to get more catch-and-shoot opportunities. He can score 30 with his eyes closed. I don’t think it’ll be an adjustment for any of us—just be ready for any pass that comes our way.”
P.J. Washington has continued to shine, recording his fifth consecutive double-double with 16 points and 11 rebounds against Utah. His ability to impact both ends of the floor has been crucial, especially as the Mavericks adjust to their shorthanded roster.
The Mavericks’ defense has been the cornerstone of their recent success. With Lively and Daniel Gafford anchoring the paint, Dallas has consistently protected the rim and limited second-chance opportunities. Gafford will need to step into a more significant role, just as Lively did in Atlanta recently when Gafford missed a game due to illness.
“Our defense has really been what’s keeping us in these games,” Washington said. “When we play with energy and lock in, we’re tough to beat.”
Looking Ahead
The Mavericks will aim to extend their strong run of form against a Trail Blazers team eager to defend its home court. Tipoff is set for 8 p.m. CST, and the final word on Dončić and Irving’s availability is expected closer to game time.
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