Dallas Mavericks: Luka Doncic misses two straight games with ankle injury

Dallas Mavericks rookie Luka Doncic missed the back-to-back on Feb. 22 and 23 with an ankle injury. Learn more about the injury and how Luka’s responding.

The Dallas Mavericks were 26-31 at the All-Star Break. Their first game back came on Friday against the Denver Nuggets. Five games under .500 in the difficult Western Conference means the playoffs are a long shot. It also creates no reason to push your young star with even the smallest of injuries.

Rookie of the Year lock Luka Doncic came up with a sore ankle, and the Mavs decided not to risk it. It cost the young star two games as Dallas played a back-to-back on Feb. 22 and 23.

The word on Doncic’s injury is promising. Here is a Tweet from Brad Townsend explaining the situation.

Carlisle adds that Doncic’s injury is not serious, he’s day-to-day, will do some light shooting before tonight’s game.
— Brad Townsend (@townbrad) February 22, 2019

No word yet on if the ankle will cost Luka Doncic more time. The Mavericks play again on Monday evening in Los Angeles against the Clippers. They have three games next week. Luka should return in short order, but the team will not rush him. They want him 100 percent before taking the court.

Still having fun

The injury did not dampen the rookie’s spirits, though. Brad Townsend sent out the following Tweet before Friday’s game.

Doncic and Porzingis come out of the tunnel last, both in jackets and slacks, Luka holding a small tub of popcorn and munching on a few on the way to the bench.
— Brad Townsend (@townbrad) February 23, 2019

Then heading into Saturday’s game, Dwain Price shared this funny story about Doncic.

Luka is so funny and is such a kid at heart. A few minutes ago in the locker room he asked me: "Am I playing tonight?" I think he was just kidding, but I should have told him to check my Twitter account. @dallasmavs
— Dwain Price (@DwainPrice) February 24, 2019

Luka Doncic is certainly an astonishing basketball player, but what makes him a true star is his personality. He is always looking to have fun and flashing the trademark smile.

Final thoughts

Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic missed two straight games with a sore ankle. The injury is not serious, but no word yet if he misses more playing time. The Mavs figure to be cautious given their place in the standing and the importance of Luka to their franchise.

Grading the Kristaps Porzingis trade. Next

Watching Doncic take another step forward down the stretch is high on the Mavericks priority list, so expect him to return in the near future. Luka will continue to make magic happen on the court. That will have fans and the front office marking down the days until next season begins, so enjoy the ride.

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