Dallas Mavericks: Kristaps Porzingis (knee) out for Game 5: Who steps up?

Dallas Mavericks: Kristaps Porzingis (knee) to miss Game 5: Who steps up?

The Dallas Mavericks are fresh off one of the most exciting playoff wins in franchise history. Luka Doncic battled through a sprained ankle and the absence of Kristaps Porzingis to produce a 43-point triple-double and hit the game-winning buzzer-beater to knot the series at two games apiece.

The Mavs and LA Clippers are back at for game five on Tuesday night. Both teams are looking to grab the momentum in the series. Dallas supporters are cornered about the status of Porzingis. He was a late scratch in game four. There were no guarantees for Tuesday.

Fans got the news well before tipoff of game five. Here is the latest on Kristaps Porzingis, and who steps up in his absence.

Kristaps Porzingis (knee) out for Game 5: Who steps up for the Dallas Mavericks?

The Mavs did not waste time with Porzingis’ status. Here is the latest.

KP being out leaves the Mavericks thin in the frontcourt. Maxi Kleber and Boban Marjanovic are the team’s only true big man. They handled all 53 minutes at center in game four. Expect that to be the case for game five. Dallas could face issues if one of those men get in foul trouble on Tuesday.

The Mavs will go small without KP. Trey Burke was inserted into the starting five for game four. He responded with 25 points, five rebounds, and two steals in the win. Expect Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle to stick with Burke as the starter.

The Dallas Mavericks will need more scoring from Luka Doncic, Burke, Seth Curry, and Tim Hardaway Jr. without Kristaps Porzingis. It is a massive loss, but do not count them out. The Mavs will be looking to take control of the series on Tuesday night. Be sure to check it out.