Dallas Mavericks: Kristaps Porzingis’ injury needs to be managed like Dirk Nowitzki’s in 2003

Dallas Mavericks star Kristaps Porzingis’ injury needs to be managed as Dirk Nowitzki’s was in 2003

The Dallas Mavericks are participating in their first NBA playoffs since 2016. As the seventh-seed facing the championship-contending Clippers, the expectations for the first round were relatively low coming in.

Kristaps Porzingis was ejected in the game one loss. Luka Doncic dealt with foul trouble in game two, but Dallas pulled out a victory. The 21-year-old superstar sprained his ankle in game three as the Clippers took the lead. Then, Dallas overcame a 21-point deficit to knot the series at two. It was more than anyone expected.

Unfortunately heading into game five, KP was ruled out for the second straight game. The Mavericks lost 154-111 as the Clippers fired on all cylinders.

Kristaps Porzingis misses two straight with knee soreness: Similar to Dirk Nowitzki in 2003

In what are undoubtedly the two biggest games in Porzingis’ career, he is forced to sit out, and the Mavs are now down 3-2 in the series. Without KP the rest of the series will be even more challenging. The Mavs may not recover this season. Dallas already exceeded expectations. In order to continue to grow next season, they need a healthy Unicorn.

Injuries have always been a scary topic when it comes to KP, so it makes sense that the Mavericks want to be cautious. Knee injuries are even scarier. Many NBA and New York Knicks fans have been quick to call Porzingis “soft”, but in no way is that true. The Unicorn proved he is not someone to be messed with as he stood up for his teammates multiple times against the Clippers.

If KP had it his way he would be in the game, but knee injuries are no joke. The doctors know what’s best. If resting Porzingis elongates the 25-year-old’s prime than it is definitely worth it. People will say that he should fight through it and try to play, but Dirk Nowitzki‘s knee injury in 2003 is all the evidence the Mavericks need.

Next: Dirk in 2003 to KP in 2020