Mavericks likely to be without key wing vs Pelicans because of a foot injury

The Dallas Mavericks were without Tim Hardaway Jr. for last season’s run to the Western Conference Finals after the 6’5 wing suffered a broken foot in January that required season-ending surgery. THJ had progressed to shooting on the court, but he was not able to play, so he helped Theo Pinson lead the team’s boisterous bench as the Mavericks won two playoff series, including upsetting the top-seeded Suns to reach the conference finals.

The Mavs were happy to have Hardaway Jr. back and healthy at the start of training camp. He is still finding his rhythm and knocking the rust off, but the 30-year-old will be a key scorer off the bench for Dallas this season. He averaged 12.5 points in 25.5 minutes per game over the first two contests, while shooting just 30 percent from the field.

Hardaway Jr. popped up on the team’s injury report on Tuesday morning with foot soreness that has him listed as doubtful to play against the Pelicans. The doubtful tag is often a precursor to being ruled out, but here is a look at why it is a bit more concerning than the average player missing one game.

Mavericks likely to be without Tim Hardaway Jr. vs Pelicans because of a foot injury

Hardaway Jr. broke the bone and had surgery on his left foot last season, so for the team to be listing this as right foot soreness means this is a new injury.

The Mavs have been mum on injuries to begin the season. They made it seem like both Davis Bertans and Frank Ntilikina had minor ailments, but neither has played for multiple weeks and the team has offered no updates other than they are out before each game. THJ’s foot soreness could turn into a multiple-game injury quickly, so stay tuned for any available information.

New Orleans will be shorthanded on Tuesday night as they have ruled out Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and Herb Jones. Dallas needs to take care of business in New Orleans, especially with three Pelicans starters on the sidelines.

The Dallas Mavericks will be without Tim Hardaway Jr. on Tuesday night in New Orleans, but he has a chance to return on Thursday in Brooklyn. Will THJ be healthy enough to take the court? Check back for all the latest.