Dallas Mavericks: DeAndre Jordan opts out of Orlando

Dallas Mavericks: DeAndre Jordan out for NBA Orlando

The Dallas Mavericks are one of 22 teams taking part in the NBA’s restart. The games begin in Orlando on July 30. Luka Doncic will be hoping to lead the Mavs on a deep playoff run.

There will be plenty of obstacles, though. The novel coronavirus remains a serious threat. The NBA is creating a bubble at Disney World, but keeping everyone healthy is easier said than done. There is plenty of injury risk too especially after a four-month layoff.

Some players have already opted out of playing including Mavericks center Willie Cauley-Stein. Dallas will be without Dwight Powell, Jalen Brunson, and Courtney Lee because of injuries too. The Mavs signed Trey Burke to replace Cauley-Stein. Fans can read more about Burke’s impact here.

Former Dallas Mavericks center DeAndre Jordan opts out: What it means

Adrian Wojnarowski broke the news on Monday evening that DeAndre Jordan will not travel to Orlando after testing positive for the virus.

Nets teammate Spencer Dinwiddie also tested positive. He still wants to play in the restart if he is healthy enough to do so.

Remember, the Nets are already without Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and Wilson Chandler for Orlando. Adding Jordan to that puts a damper on their prospects. The Nets will be hoping to hold on to a playoff spot. Expect them to make a first round exit if they do.

The Mavericks and Nets do not square off in Orlando. Brooklyn plays just three Western Conference teams. None of which will have a direct impact on the Mavs standing. The Kings and Blazers are fighting for the final playoff spot in the West. The Clippers sit second and are favored to hold that position in Orlando.

Here is to wishing DeAndre Jordan and Spencer Dinwiddie speedy recoveries. The NBA is set to continue moving forward. Hopefully, they are able to finish the 2019-2020 season in Orlando. Stay tuned for what should be a wild ride.