Dallas Mavericks: Luka Doncic returns with triple-double vs. Clippers

Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic returned from an ankle injury on Feb. 25 and produced a triple-double against the LA Clippers.

Dallas Mavericks fans were a bit worried when rookie Luka Doncic missed the first two games after the All-Star break. It was listed as a sore ankle, and Coach Carlisle stated it was not serious. Fans were looking forward to Luka running the show down the stretch, though.

Fear not as Doncic returned on Monday evening. The Mavericks traveled to Los Angeles to face the Clippers in a nationally televised game on NBA TV. The Clippers earned a 121-112 victory, but Luka did not disappoint. He notched a triple-double in his 33 minutes of action. That was Doncic fourth triple-double in his NBA career.

Got started early

Luka Doncic scored the first points for the Mavs on Feb. 25. He drilled one of his patented step-back 3-pointers just over a minute into game. Fans can see the highlight below courtesy of the Mavs official Twitter.

Plenty of highlights

Doncic was definitely on his game against the Clippers. He was throwing lobs left and right. Luka also had his step-back jumped tuned in. Fans can check on one of Doncic’s crazier makes in the video below courtesy of the Mavericks Twitter.

Luka finished with a stellar stat line in every area except one. He had 28 points, ten rebounds, ten assists, four 3-pointers made, and one block. Doncic also shot seven of 12 from the field, four for six on 3-pointers, and made ten of his 12 free throw attempts. His only downfall was nine turnovers in 33 minutes of action.

Final thoughts

Dallas Mavericks star rookie Luka Doncic returned from his ankle injury and notched a triple-double against the Clippers on Monday evening. The Mavs ultimately lost the game, though. That makes five straight losses for Dallas.

Luka could be in for a monster stretch to close out the season. He has the ball in hands more than any player in the NBA since the trade deadline. Doncic can produce in almost every category. Seeing him average 25 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists per game appear likely for the teenager.

The Dallas Mavericks return to the court on Wednesday, Feb. 27 when they host the Indiana Pacers. Luka had one of his worst games of the season against the Pacers in their first meeting. Fans should expect Doncic to bounce-back. He will be looking to make it consecutive triple-double in front of the home crowd, so stay tuned.