Kemba Walker (knee) added to Dallas Mavericks injury report: Out vs Rockets

The Dallas Mavericks signed Kemba Walker in late November, despite his recent injury issues. General manager and president of basketball operations Nico Harrison all but confirmed there were still problems with Walker’s knee in a radio interview. The Mavs needed a third ball-handler, and Kemba was the best available option to fill that role.

It took him some time to get game ready after not playing in the NBA since February, but Walker quickly proved he can still contribute. He had 32 points, seven assists, and five rebounds on the second night of a back-to-back to secure a spot in the rotation.

Walker played in four straight games, but now he is back on the injury report. The Mavericks were quick to rule him out because of left knee injury recovery for Friday’s game in Houston against the Rockets. Should fans be concerned?

Kemba Walker added to Dallas Mavericks injury report: Out vs Rockets

The concern level on this one should be high. The team listed it like they are just giving Walker a game of rest against an inferior opponent, but his chronic knee issues make it worrying. Kemba will miss Friday’s game but do not be surprised to see him miss more time moving forward.

The 32-point guard has dealt with knee issues since leaving the Charlotte Hornets in 2019. He played just 136 games over the last three seasons, and Walker was unsigned into the regular season because of his knee. The four-time All-Star’s minutes and playing time need to be watched closely because another long-term absence could be just around the corner.

Walker was one of four Mavericks players ruled out for the Dec. 23 contest against the Rockets. Dorian Finney-Smith will miss his second straight game with an adductor injury as Maxi Kleber and Josh Green remain sidelined as well.

Stay tuned for injury updates on Kemba Walker and all the latest Dallas Mavericks news at The Smoking Cuban.