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

Trust the Dallas Mavericks medical staff with Kristaps Porzingis’ injury

The percentage calculator estimates that just 0.000038 percent of the world’s population is over seven feet tall. Of that small number, the NBA has seen time and time again how knee injuries destroy tall players’ careers. Greg Oden never had a chance due to his knees. Yao Ming was out of the league after a very short prime because his legs gave out.

If the Mavs went all in and let Dirk Nowitzki play in 2003, the chances he flamed out early like Ming are much higher.

All the joy and glory of the 2011 championship or the 21 years as a Maverick are probably much different if Nowitzki added unnecessary miles to his knees in 2003. While winning is always the goal, sometimes its valuable to give up some now for more later.

Mark Cuban has preached that he wants Kristaps Porzingis and Luka Doncic together for decades. Health will be a massive part of that. Last year in the playoffs, the world watched Kevin Durant play when he probably should not have and tear his Achilles. With a history of knee injuries, that Mavericks have a duty to protect the health of Porzingis.

KP and the Mavericks will bounce back. The Unicorn will continue to grow with Luka. At 21 and 25 years old, the Mavericks have one of the brightest futures in the NBA.

Just like Dirk, KP is competitive and he wants to play, so do not knock him for sitting out. The Dallas Mavericks are already ahead of schedule, so fans should be happy with the direction of this team. They should not take risks that could jeopardize the future.