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Dallas Mavericks: Dirk Nowitzki working hard to recover from ankle surgery

By Tyler Watts

CLEVELAND, OH - APRIL 1: Dirk Nowitzki #41 of the Dallas Mavericks argues a call during the second half against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena on April 1, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Mavericks 98-87. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OH - APRIL 1: Dirk Nowitzki #41 of the Dallas Mavericks argues a call during the second half against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena on April 1, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Mavericks 98-87. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /
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Dallas Mavericks star and future Hall of Famer Dirk Nowitzki had left ankle surgery, and he is working hard to be ready for the upcoming season.

The Dallas Mavericks will have Dirk Nowitzki back for an unprecedented 21st consecutive season with the team this fall.  Dirk is an icon and all-time great player, but his offseason has not been all sunshine.

Nowitzki had ankle surgery in April just days before last regular season ended.  He is still rehabbing and recovering with only six weeks until the Mavs report to training camp.

Below is a Tweet from Dwain Price featuring a quote from Dirk when asked about the surgery on Aug. 8.

Ready for camp?

The Mavericks likely take it easy on Dirk during training camp.  Nowitzki also said that he can run, but is limited in his lateral movements at this time.  Dallas needs him healthy during the regular season, so do not expect them to rush him during camp.

Must Read. Predicting the Mavs entire opening night roster

Expect Dirk to be ready to face the Suns on opening night, but he may play sparingly or not at all in the preseason.  He is 40 years old and has two decades of NBA experience under his belt, so do not worry about him missing a few days in training camp.

Final thoughts

Dirk Nowitzki is making progress from his April left ankle surgery and should be ready to suit up opening night.  With the additions of Luka Doncic and DeAndre Jordan, the Dallas Mavericks are an exciting squad looking to jump into playoff contention this season.  Dirk figures to be a key cog in that improvement, so getting him fully healthy should be the top priority.

The speculation about Nowitzki entering his final NBA season figures to be a storyline all season.  He remained steadfast in his uncertainty about his playing future in that same interview.  Expect the results of the season to have an impact on Dirk coming back for year 22.  Stay tuned for all the latest information.

Next. 5 reasons why Luka Doncic wins Rookie of the Year

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