Key Starter Injured, Leaves Mavericks-Nuggets Game
Introduction
The Denver Nuggets extended their winning streak to seven games on Monday night with a 118-109 victory over the Dallas Mavericks. The win was marred by an injury to Dallas’ starting point guard, Luka Doncic, who left the game in the third quarter with a left heel contusion.
Doncic is averaging 33.5 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 8.9 assists per game this season. He is one of the most dynamic players in the NBA and his absence will be a major blow to the Mavericks.
The Injury
Doncic was injured with 5:42 remaining in the third quarter. He stepped on the foot of Nuggets center Nikola Jokic while driving to the basket and immediately grabbed his left heel. He limped off the court and did not return.
An MRI on Tuesday revealed that Doncic has a left heel contusion. He is expected to miss at least one week with the injury.
The Impact on the Mavericks
Doncic’s injury is a major setback for the Mavericks. He is their best player and his absence will be felt on both ends of the court.
On offense, Doncic is the Mavericks’ primary scorer and facilitator. He is also one of their best rebounders. Without him, the Mavericks will have to find other players to step up and fill his void.
On defense, Doncic is a solid one-on-one defender and he also helps out with team defense. Without him, the Mavericks will be more vulnerable to opposing offenses.
The Road Ahead
The Mavericks will have to find a way to win without Doncic in the lineup. They have a tough schedule coming up with games against the Los Angeles Clippers, Golden State Warriors, and Milwaukee Bucks in the next week.
The Mavericks have some depth at the guard position with Spencer Dinwiddie, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Josh Green all capable of playing point guard. However, none of those players are as good as Doncic and they will have to step up their play in his absence.
Conclusion
Doncic’s injury is a major blow to the Mavericks. He is their best player and his absence will be felt on both ends of the court. The Mavericks will have to find a way to win without him in the lineup if they want to stay in contention for a playoff spot.
Additional Information
Here are some additional details about Doncic’s injury:
- Doncic missed the Mavericks’ game against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday night.
- The Mavericks are 1-1 in the two games that Doncic has missed this season.
- Doncic is expected to be re-evaluated in one week.
