Dallas Mavericks: Luka Doncic questionable: Who steps up if he sits?

Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic (ankle) questionable: Who steps up if he sits?

The Dallas Mavericks were riding high entering Friday’s game, but it did not last. Kawhi Leonard had a monster performance to lead the Clippers to victors and put them up in the series. To make matters worse, Luka Doncic sprained his ankle in the third quarter. He attempted to play in the fourth but exited less than three minutes later.

The team needs Luka on the floor to upset the Clippers. He is the Mavericks unquestioned lead ball-handler and superstar. The Mavericks also have to think about the long-term health of their 21-year-old star. They cannot risk further injury with the hopes of winning one playoff game.

Fans got a bit more news on the status of Luka Doncic for Sunday’s game four. Here is a look at the latest on his injury plus who steps up if Doncic cannot play.

Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic questionable: Who steps up if he is out?

The Mavs have listed Luka questionable with a left ankle sprain on their media notes for game four. Maverick coach Rick Carlisle confirmed the team would make it a game-time decision with their star. They want to give him as much time as possible to recover.

If Doncic is out, Seth Curry will step into the starting five. He is on fire in the series. Curry is averaging 17.0 points per over the three games. He is 20 of 31 from the field too.

The number one scoring role will shift to Kristaps Porzingis with Tim Hardaway Jr. becoming the second option. Both players need to have 20-plus on solid efficiency for Dallas to stay in the game without Luka.

The Mavericks are going to need more playmaking too. That will be the toughest void to fill. Expect Curry, Trey Burke, and Delon Wright to handle the duties without Doncic. Finding the open man will be key to topping the Clippers on Sunday afternoon.

Stay tuned to The Smoking Cuban for all the latest on Luka Doncic’s injury plus analysis from this series.