Dallas Mavericks: Tim Hardaway Jr. injures hamstring vs. Lakers

Dallas Mavericks wing Tim Hardaway Jr. suffered a hamstring injury against the Los Angeles Lakers on Dec. 29. Here is the latest update.

The Dallas Mavericks received a massive boost when they inserted Tim Hardaway Jr. into the starting lineup on Nov. 20. He provides floor spacing and the third scoring punch the team needs to have the NBA’s best offense.

Over his 19 starts, THJ is averaging 16.2 points, 3.2 3-pointers made, and 0.9 steals in 27.8 minutes per game. He is shooting 46.2 percent from the field and 43.2 percent on his threes. The Mavericks also have 12 wins in those contests.

That is what made Sunday’s game a bit disappointing. The Mavericks dropped a game against the Lakers. Hardaway Jr. suffered a hamstring injury in the first quarter and did not return. Let us take a closer look at his status.

THJ on his injury

Hardaway Jr. gave an update after the game which fans can hear below courtesy of the Mavs official Twitter.

https://twitter.com/dallasmavs/status/1211519308934680577

He had some optimism, but hamstring injuries are notoriously tricky. They have a high reoccurrence rate. Expect the Mavs to be cautious with their starting two guard.

Coach Carlisle also shared some optimism in his post-game comments. Fans can hear his words here.

Looking ahead

It will be interesting to see what the Mavs do if Tim Hardaway Jr. is forced to miss time. Coach Carlisle started J.J. Barea in the second half against the Lakers. They also have Seth Curry, Delon Wright, and Jalen Brunson that could fit into the starting five. The most likely option would be Curry. His shooting gives the team an added element.

The Dallas Mavericks play the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday evening. Tim Hardaway Jr. should be considered questionable for that game until the team provides an update. Do not be surprised to see him miss that game.

The Smoking Cuban will have all the updates on THJ’s injury plus analysis on the Dallas Mavericks that fans cannot find anywhere else, so please check back with us often.