Mavericks: Coach Rick Carlisle gives an update on Kristaps Porzingis

The Dallas Mavericks need to win every game down the stretch if they want to avoid the play-in tournament. Remember teams seven through ten in each conference take part this year. The Mavs are currently sixth, but just 2.5 games separate teams six through ten. Being healthy and picking up wins is massive for any organization in the race.

Mavericks star Kristaps Porzingis suffered a sprained ankle against the Los Angeles Lakers on April 22. It did not look good, but the team was quick to downplay the injury. The Mavericks ruled him out for his third straight game on April 27.

Before tipoff against the Golden State Warriors, Mavs head coach Rick Carlisle gave an update on KP’s injury. Here is a closer look at what he had to say and what it could mean moving forward.

Dallas Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle gives up on Kristaps Porzingis

Here is Carlisle’s quote on Porzingis’ injury from his pregame media availability on April 27.

"“Yea, I get concerned about all injuries. I don’t know when he is going to return. It’s possible he could play on Thursday or maybe it could be the weekend or maybe it could be sometime hopefully shortly thereafter. I really don’t know.We don’t think it is serious. He is getting better. He did work out before the game last night, and he has worked out pretty aggressively the last couple of days, so he’s got to stay on that path. We just got to make sure he is ready.”"

It was positive news that Porzingis is working out, but it does not sound like the Unicorn was close to playing against the Warriors on Tuesday night. The Mavericks have five games this week including a back-to-back set on Saturday and Sunday. It sounds like KP could miss the entire week.

The Mavs should hold him out until he is fully healthy with the playoffs just around the corner. They need him producing in the postseason if Dallas is going to pull a first-round upset. Fans should be watching closely. The Mavericks are hoping to avoid the play-in tournament, but need a healthy KP. Expect them to err on the side of caution with the Unicorn.

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