Mavericks Updates Before Clippers Matchup: Dončić and Irving Out, Washington Set for Preseason Debut, and More
Get the latest updates before Mavericks face the Clippers: Kyrie Irving out for rest, P.J. Washington makes his preseason debut, and key injury updates on Dončić and more.
LOS ANGELES — The Dallas Mavericks face the LA Clippers on Monday night at Intuit Dome, continuing their preseason schedule with key players nearing full participation. After starting 0-2 in preseason play, the Mavericks are focused on building chemistry and integrating new faces ahead of the regular season but will do so without either of their superstar guards, Luka Dončić or Kyrie Irving.
Irving and Klay Thompson, who made their preseason debuts in Thursday’s 107-102 loss to the Utah Jazz, were both initially expected to receive extended minutes against the Clippers, according to recent comments from head coach Jason Kidd. However, Irving was ruled out for rest just hours before tipoff, while Thompson will still play. In their performances against the Jazz, Irving recorded 12 points and four rebounds on 6-of-11 shooting in his first game back from offseason hand surgery, while Thompson contributed 10 points and three assists.
Despite Kidd recently suggesting that P.J. Washington could potentially miss opening night, Washington will make his preseason debut against the Clippers after being sidelined with left hip tightness. Along with Irving, other key inactive players include Dončić (left calf contusion), Maxi Kleber (left ankle sprain), Kessler Edwards (left ankle sprain), and Danté Exum (right wrist). Brandon Williams, signed to a two-way contract, will be available to play.
Before the Mavericks face the Clippers, here are observations from their morning shootaround, along with the latest insights.
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Dončić Nearing Return
Luka Dončić was on the court during the Mavericks’ shootaround on Monday and completed an extended workout afterward. While he will not play against the Clippers, Dončić’s progress suggests he could return for the preseason finale or the regular season opener on Oct. 24, but it remains to be seen.
Team-Bonding at Irving’s House
Naji Marshall spoke to reporters at shootaround and expressed excitement about the Mavericks’ first road game of the preseason, emphasizing the importance of building chemistry as the team continues preparations.
“It’s the first road game, even though it’s preseason,” Marshall said. “We’re looking to bring the energy, come together as a team, and get a win.”
Marshall also reflected on the team bonding experience at Kyrie Irving’s Los Angeles home, where players and staff gathered for team-building. “It was beautiful. Amazing home. Amazing family. He welcomed us with open arms,” Marshall said. “It was just an amazing team bonding trip.
The Mavericks spent plenty of time together in Las Vegas during a five-day training camp at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). Marshall feels this team has built strong chemistry, saying, “Everybody’s bonded really well. It feels like everybody’s at home.”
Marshall emphasized the value of team unity, particularly during tough stretches. “When the group is tight-knit, it’s easier to get through adversity,” he said.
Injury Updates
In addition to P.J. Washington and Brandon Williams returning to game action, several other Mavericks are progressing in their injury recoveries. Maxi Kleber (left ankle sprain) worked on conditioning while getting shots up, and Kessler Edwards (left ankle sprain) went through a workout.
With Danté Exum sidelined after recently undergoing wrist surgery, the Mavericks will continue to evaluate the backcourt rotation. However, Dončić and Irving not playing against the Clippers will open additional minutes for Jaden Hardy and Spencer Dinwiddie. It also leaves more room to evaluate two-way contract candidates.
Vogel Joins Coaching Staff in Los Angeles
Former NBA head coach Frank Vogel joined the Mavericks’ coaching staff as a consultant. He is with the team in Los Angeles, bringing added experience to Kidd’s staff as the team works to integrate its new additions and prepare for the regular season.
Looking Ahead
As the Mavericks prepare for the regular season, Jason Kidd recently stressed the importance of building rhythm and continuity. While various key players are out for Monday’s game, Kidd noted that the team’s preseason finale against the Milwaukee Bucks is likely to serve as a “dress rehearsal” for the regular season.
The Mavericks open their regular season on Oct. 24 against the San Antonio Spurs.
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