Is Luka Doncic playing today? Mavericks vs Spurs injury update for April 9

Dallas Mavericks superstar Luka Doncic played just seconds into the second quarter on Friday night as the team was eliminated from postseason contention by the Chicago Bulls. Dallas decided to rest multiple players in hopes of keeping their first-round pick after a difficult season.

The NBA is investigating the Mavericks for tanking, but that did not stop the franchise from ruling out half their roster for Sunday’s season finale against the San Antonio Spurs. Dallas needs to lose to lock into the tenth-worst record in the league and give themselves a 79.8 percent chance of keeping their first-round pick. They owe it to the Knicks from the original Kristaps Porzingis trade if it lands 11 through 30.

Will Luka play in Sunday afternoon’s season finale? What should fans be watching for after the game? Here is a look at the latest.

Luka Doncic’s status for Dallas Mavericks vs. San Antonio Spurs on April 9

Luka was ruled out on the NBA’s official injury report. They are calling it left thigh injury recovery, but number 77 is sitting out as the Mavericks try to keep their draft pick, and he is not the only one.

Dallas Mavericks' full injury report vs. San Antonio Spurs on April 9

Kyrie Irving (foot), Tim Hardaway Jr. (ankle), Josh Green (rest), Reggie Bullock (rest), and Maxi Kleber (hamstring) are all out for Sunday’s game against the Spurs. Dallas is down six key rotation players and others will likely only play in the first half.

The Spurs did not release an official injury report as they are on the second night of a back-to-back set.

Luka Doncic's injury history

This will be Luka’s 16th missed game of the season, and he has not played more than 66 games since his rookie campaign. Fans can see his full injury history here.

When is Luka Doncic coming back?

Doncic is healthy and plans to play for the Slovenian National Team this summer, including in the FIBA World Cup in August. Next time fans see number 77 on the floor, it will be for his country.

Key dates for Dallas Mavericks to know this offseason

The Mavs will miss the postseason for just the second time in Luka’s career, so here are some key dates to look forward to this offseason.

May 16: 2023 NBA Draft lottery

June 22: 2023 NBA Draft

June 30: Free agency opens

Sept. 30: Training camp opens

Oct. 24: Regular season begins