Mavericks dealt unlucky double whammy of injuries at worst possible time

The Dallas Mavericks found themselves in a tough spot after a controversial loss to the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday, a game marred by frustration and late-game drama from a goaltending no-call.

Hoping to rebound on Friday against their rival, the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Mavs faced an uphill battle with injuries piling up. Without key players like Luka Dončić and Dereck Lively II, the team’s bad luck continued into the marquee matchup against their rival.

Jaden Hardy and Dwight Powell went down during the game. The Mavericks’ resilience is being tested, and their ability to weather the storm was shown in the win vs Oklahoma City.

Mavericks' injury luck worsens with Powell and Hardy going down

Jaden Hardy had been stepping up in a big way over the past month, filling the void left by key players sidelined with injuries. His ability to score efficiently and facilitate the offense had become a vital part of the Mavericks' rotation. Hardy’s confidence on the court and knack for creating opportunities helped keep the team competitive during a tough stretch. However, his recent right ankle sprain is a significant setback for Dallas. Hardy has battled ankle injuries in the past, and him suffering another one at this time threw a wrench into his solid stretch of recent play.

The Mavericks played a great game against the Thunder, regardless of Powell and Hardy going down. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren didn't suit up for tonight's game, but this game still was intense with multiple lead changes, and some amazing clutch play by Spencer Dinwiddie and P.J. Washington.

Powell also went down with a hip injury tonight, and he's been a good fill-in for Derek Lively II and Daniel Gafford when they go down. The Mavericks frontcourt will be depleted, and hopefully, these injuries won't stain the Mavericks for too long.

The Mavericks eagerly anticipate the return of Luka Dončić, who is expected to rejoin the lineup around the All-Star break. Dončić’s return couldn’t come at a better time for Dallas, as his absence has been felt on both ends of the floor. Doncic's presence not only lifts the team’s offensive potential but also eases the burden on other players who have had to step up in his absence. With the season entering a critical stretch, getting their franchise cornerstone back could provide the spark Dallas needs to make a strong push in the Western Conference standings.

After a strong win vs the number one-seeded Thunder, the Mavericks have a stretch vs the Hornets, Thunder, Celtics, Wizards, and Pelicans to finish the month. Hopefully, the Mavs finish out strong and bring back the guys in a timely manner. Stay tuned for more updates on the Dallas Mavericks.