Dallas Mavericks: Jalen Brunson injures shoulder in loss to Hawks

Dallas Mavericks guard Jalen Brunson suffered a shoulder injury early in their loss against the Atlanta Hawks on Feb. 22. Find out the latest here.

The Dallas Mavericks had a bad Saturday night. They knew it was going to be a tough game heading in. The Mavs traveled to Atlanta to face the Hawks on the second night of a back-to-back. Both Luka Doncic (ankle) and Kristaps Porzingis (knee) were held out as they continue to deal with their nagging injuries.

With Luka on the sidelines, Jalen Brunson was thrust into the starting five. He had a season-high 27 points in the first meeting against the Hawks on Feb. 1. Coach Rick Carlisle and the Mavs were expecting another stellar performance from the 23-year-old guard.

Things did not go according to plan. Brunson drove to the basket and was fouled hard on the first play on the game. He injured his shoulder and was quickly ruled out for the rest of the night with a sprain. Let us take a look at the latest.

Coach Carlisle postgame

During his media session after game, Carlisle had this to say on Brunson’s injury.

It is too early to tell if he will need to miss more time because of the injury. Things do not sound stellar, though. Expect the Mavericks to be cautious with the young guard especially with J.J. Barea capable of filling his role.

Brunson’s comments

JB seems optimistic about the injury. It does not seem like it will keep him out for an extended period. Keep an eye on status for Monday’s game against the Timberwolves when the injury reports are released on Sunday.

Hopefully, Brunson is back and ready to go. The Mavs need his playmaking while Luka manages his ankle injury. JB gives Carlisle the opportunity to play Doncic fewer minutes. That could be important in keeping the 20-year-old star healthy down the stretch.

Dallas Mavericks fans can check back to The Smoking Cuban for all the latest updates on Jalen Brunson’s injury plus analysis on their team that is unmatched.