Dallas Mavs May Miss Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving vs. Detroit Pistons

Mavs superstars Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving may not play against the Pistons during Friday's matchup.

Apr 10, 2024; Miami, Florida, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic (77) talks to forward Derrick / Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

MIAMI — The Dallas Mavericks could face the Detroit Pistons in their final regular-season home game without Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic. After securing their 50th win of the season and a top-five seed in the Western Conference, the Mavs are locked into a first-round playoff matchup against the Los Angeles Clippers.

Irving, dealing with left hamstring soreness, has been ruled out against the Pistons, while Doncic is questionable due to left ankle soreness.

Apr 10, 2024; Miami, Florida, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic (77) talks to forward Derrick / Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

Irving's absence interrupts a streak of 31 consecutive games since returning from a right thumb sprain on February 5. He finished with 25 points in the team's recent victory over the Miami Heat. This performance was part of a significant milestone for Irving, appearing in his 58th game of the season and securing the Mavs' 50th win, which granted him a $1 million contract incentive.

When asked about not potentially playing a meaningful game against until the playoffs, Irving sounded excited for the chance to get some rest.

"Yes. Yes. Yes. That sounds great," Irving said. "You said 10-to-11 days, right? I'm not taking that for granted at all. Yes, sir."

Doncic only missed two games in the last month. He's coming off a performance against the Heat featuring 29 points, nine rebounds, and nine assists. He recently dealt with right knee soreness, which had him sidelined in last Friday’s game against the Golden State Warriors.

Doncic spent a busy summer competing in the FIBA World Cup, but he mentioned that he's accustomed to such a demanding schedule and is feeling fine. Like Irving, Doncic appears likely to gain a chance to rest before the regular season ends.

"I'm now used to playing all summer," Doncic said. "A lot of games, so a lot of games under my legs. That's about it. I feel good.

The Mavs have already secured the Southwest Division title and a minimum fifth-place finish in the Western Conference, setting the stage for a playoff face-off with the Los Angeles Clippers.

Additionally, coach Jason Kidd stated that rookie center Dereck Lively II, who has a right knee sprain, is unlikely to play during the final two regular season games. He has already been ruled out against the Pistons.