Mavericks Adapt Without Luka Dončić as Positive Signs Emerge for His Return

Luka Dončić nears return as the Mavericks thrive without him, defeating the Knicks 129-114 behind balanced scoring, strong defense, and key contributions.

Photo via Rashad Miller

DALLAS — The Dallas Mavericks have navigated a challenging stretch without Luka Dončić, and their most recent performance—a 129-114 victory over the New York Knicks on Wednesday—highlighted their ability to thrive through depth and balance. With Dončić sidelined for a fourth straight game due to a right wrist sprain, Dallas improved to 11-8 on the season and 4-1 in games without their superstar.

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Before Wednesday’s game, head coach Jason Kidd offered a positive update on Dončić’s recovery. While there wasn’t a clear timetable, it added reason for optimism that his return may be on the horizon.

“Looks good,” Kidd said. “We just got off the road, so we haven’t had practice. But everything that has come back indicates he looks good and is getting closer to coming back to play.”

Dončić’s Injury and Recovery Timeline