Luka Dončić Upgraded to Available, Kyrie Irving Out as Mavericks Face Trail Blazers
Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving are questionable as the Mavericks face the Trail Blazers amid injuries to Dereck Lively II, Naji Marshall, Klay Thompson, and others.
PORTLAND — The Dallas Mavericks are set to face the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday night, and their injury report has been updated. Luka Dončić, initially listed as questionable due to a right wrist sprain, has been upgraded to available. However, Kyrie Irving has been ruled out as he continues to manage right shoulder soreness.
The Mavericks, playing on the second night of a back-to-back, navigate a lengthy injury report that includes Dereck Lively II, Klay Thompson, Naji Marshall, and Danté Exum. Lively (right knee hyperextension), Thompson (left plantar fascia), Marshall (illness), and Exum (right wrist surgery) remain sidelined.
Mavericks Persevere Through Injuries
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Despite the challenges, Dallas has shown resilience in Dončić’s absence, posting a 5-1 record. Irving had been instrumental in their recent success, averaging 25.7 points, 6.5 assists, and 5.3 rebounds over the past six games. His absence against Portland shifts the focus to other contributors to fill the void.
Quentin Grimes has stepped up as a consistent two-way presence, delivering a season-high 24 points against the Jazz. 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’s return. “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 been a steady force, recording his fifth consecutive double-double with 16 points and 11 rebounds against Utah. His contributions on both ends of the floor have been vital for a Mavericks team adjusting to its shorthanded lineup.
Spencer Dinwiddie has also been a crucial playmaker, averaging 13.4 points and 6.8 assists over his last five games. With Irving out, Dinwiddie will be leaned on heavily to orchestrate the offense alongside Dončić.
Defensive Anchors Step Up
The Mavericks’ defense has been the backbone of their success, particularly with Daniel Gafford stepping up in Lively’s absence. Gafford will play a pivotal role against Portland, anchoring the paint and providing rim protection.
“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
Dallas will try to build on its momentum against a Trail Blazers team eager to defend its home court. With Dončić back in the lineup, the Mavericks will aim to sustain their momentum despite Irving’s absence. Tipoff is set for 8 p.m. CST.
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