The Dallas Mavericks will be without star guard Luka Doncic for an extended period after he injured his left calf on Christmas Day. According to a team report, the five-time All-Star will be re-evaluated in a month.
Without their leader, the Mavericks begin a four-game road trip against the Phoenix Suns on Friday night.
Mavericks’ Challenge Without Doncic
Doncic strained his calf during the second quarter of a 105-99 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves. Despite missing eight games this season, the Mavericks have performed well without him, boasting a 6-2 record in his absence. One notable victory was on the road against the powerful Oklahoma City Thunder, where P.J. Washington delivered season highs of 27 points and 17 rebounds.
Dallas coach Jason Kidd expects his team to maintain its level of play. The loss to the Timberwolves was just the team’s fourth in the past 18 games. Doncic, who is averaging 28.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 7.8 assists in 22 games this season, scored 14 points in 16 minutes before exiting against Minnesota. Dallas trailed by as many as 28 points before mounting a comeback that ultimately fell short. Kyrie Irving stepped up with 39 points, his second-best output of the season.
Mavericks big man Dereck Lively II (left hip) is questionable for Friday’s game. He had six points and 10 rebounds in 30 minutes against Minnesota.
Suns’ Situation
Phoenix will also be missing a star, as guard Devin Booker (left groin strain) will miss his fourth consecutive game. The Suns snapped a three-game losing streak with a 110-100 home victory over the Denver Nuggets on Wednesday night. Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal each scored 27 points as Phoenix avenged a 117-90 road loss to the Nuggets two days earlier.
Coach Mike Budenholzer challenged the team after the lethargic effort in Denver, reminding them to focus on the little things when scoring isn’t up to par. The Suns displayed a higher level of energy that had been missing in recent games.
Suns reserve guard Grayson Allen remains in concussion protocol and will miss his third consecutive game.
Head-to-Head
Phoenix is 2-0 against the Mavericks this season, with a 114-102 home win on October 26 and a 114-113 road victory on November 8. Durant averaged 28.5 points in these games, while Doncic averaged 35 points for Dallas.
Key Matchup
The Mavericks will need to rely on their depth and strong performances from players like Kyrie Irving and P.J. Washington. The Suns, despite missing Booker, have shown resilience and will look to continue their recent success against Dallas.
