Dirk Nowitzki Reportedly Underwent Ankle Surgery Yesterday

Dirk Nowitzki of the Dallas Mavericks reportedly underwent season-ending ankle surgery yesterday. This report came as a surprise to most, as it was not commonly known that he was experiencing an ailment in his ankle.

Although the surgery was reportedly minor, Dirk Nowitzki is still 39-years old and in the twilight years of his career. Any step backwards for the Big German, who has stuck with his story of wanting to be back next year, is still a big concern.

The story was first reported by Tim MacMahon of ESPN, who said that the procedure was considered minor and will not effect his decision on a 21st season with the Dallas Mavericks.

Although it is disappointing to hear that there is even a possibility at this point that Dirk might not be back in a Mavs uniform again, the report sounds pretty hopeful that we will get at least one more year out of the greatest Maverick of all time.

Sources: Dirk Nowitzki underwent surgery on his left ankle this morning and will miss the rest of the season. The surgery is considered relatively minor and is not expected to affect his decision on whether to return for a 21st season.
— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) April 5, 2018

The follow up reports from Marc Stein of the New York Times seemed to be even more optimistic for another year of basketball from the Ghostface Drilla.

League sources say Dirk Nowitzki opted for season-ending surgery today on his left ankle to enhance his chances of returning for a 21st season and to get the earliest possible start on rehab. Link to @nytimes coverage: https://t.co/jI8ka3ISFR
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) April 5, 2018

The surgery was already planned, league sources say, when Nowitzki told the @nytimes last week: "As of now, I'm planning to come back" next season
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) April 5, 2018

Nowitzki decided to play through the left ankle impingement that plagued him throughout this season and his mobility was severely hampered at times, but the Mavs' hope is that today's procedure helps in that department
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) April 5, 2018

This last tweet is extra telling of the impressive abilities of Dirk even at the ripe old age of 39. The fact that he was able to play through this ankle injury shows just how tough and focused he is while on the court. Although his movement definitely looks slow and painful, it is good to hear that this is not entirely due to old age.

The Dallas Mavericks official Twitter also released an announcement on the ankle situation:

Dirk underwent surgical debridement of his left ankle today in Dallas. Get well soon, ?.

MORE: https://t.co/LrsTNpqjyX
— Dallas Mavericks (@dallasmavs) April 5, 2018

The hope for everyone is that Dirk Nowitzki decides to come back for another year. Although his play has taken a bit of a hit, there is no doubt that he is still a capable player on the court who is beloved by an entire fanbase and a vast majority of the NBA fans of the world.

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The next few months and weeks will be important to the impending decision from Dirk on whether season #21 will happen. Any hindrance with the ankle could add concern to the return, but for now, we will stay hopeful that Dirk will be back for one more year.