MRI Confirms Dallas Mavs' Luka Doncic Thumb Sprain; Status vs. Houston Rockets
DALLAS — The Dallas Mavericks will begin a three-game homestand on Tuesday with a matchup against the Houston Rockets. Luka Doncic, who injured his left thumb early in the team's loss against the Los Angeles Clippers on Saturday, will remain available to play amid the latest developments.
After Monday's practice, Mavs coach Jason Kidd told reporters that Doncic underwent an MRI since the team's return to Dallas, confirming a left thumb sprain. The Slovenian superstar will be available to play against the Rockets.
"MRI performed here in Dallas confirmed a left thumb sprain, but he practiced and will be available tomorrow," Kidd said.
During the portion of practice open to media, Doncic was seen shooting free throws while still having his left thumb taped up. It was the same way the Mavs training staff taped his hand in Los Angeles after suffering the injury, and he played through it.
Doncic told reporters in Los Angeles that he didn't think his thumb was broken. The further examination that took place in Dallas confirmed it.
"I don't think it's broken," Doncic said on Saturday. "So, we'll see further tomorrow in Dallas."
Doncic has averaged 30.5 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 7.8 assists in 16 games this season. His production remained relatively similar in Los Angeles, averaging 30.0 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 6.0 assists. Still, his efficiency was uncharacteristically low during the two-game road trip — shooting 41.5 percent from the floor and 20.0 percent from the perimeter.
The Mavs are set to begin their second stretch of games featuring consecutive home games this season. When it begins, Doncic and the Mavs will seek to find a rhythm offensively after scoring only 88 points in their loss to the Clippers and averaging just 96.0 points in their two games in Los Angeles overall.
Other injury updates for the Mavs include Dereck Lively II being listed as questionable for Tuesday's game. He was sidelined for the loss against the Clippers due to a lower back contusion that he suffered against the Lakers. Maxi Kleber remains out, and there is no further information yet available on a timetable for a return.
Check back with DallasBasketball.com for more updates regarding Doncic's injury as they come, along with complete coverage of the Mavs throughout the season.
