Jalen Brunson (foot) practices again: Questionable to face Cavaliers

The Dallas Mavericks played without Jalen Brunson in their loss to the Washington Wizards on Saturday night. The 25-year-old guard suffered a foot injury in the second quarter on Nov. 23 and did not return against the Clippers. There was optimism JB would play after he practiced on Friday, but the 6’1 guard had some soreness and was ruled out.

The Mavs were back at practice on Sunday, and Brunson completed the entire workout. Head coach Jason Kidd noted the JB performed well, but how he feels on Monday will determine his status.

Dallas listed Brunson as questionable on the NBA’s official injury report, and he appears to be trending towards a game-time decision as the Mavericks host the Cleveland Cavaliers at the American Airlines Center. Here is a look at why they need JB in the lineup on Monday night.

Jalen Brunson (foot) questionable to face Cavaliers: Why Mavericks need him back

The Mavs have already ruled out Frank Ntilikina with a calf injury. If Brunson needs to miss a second straight game, Dallas will be shorthanded in the backcourt leaving Trey Burke as the only bench ball-handler. That puts a massive workload on the shoulders of Luka Doncic and forces others to step up to fill the scoring void.

The Mavericks' superstar had 33 points against the Wizards, and Dallas had four other players in double figures, but it was not enough to win. They need Trey Burke to get him double digits with Kristaps Porzingis and Tim Hardaway Jr. stepping up to offer 20. Without that type of scoring, it will be tough sledding for the Mavericks on Monday night if Jalen Brunson sits.

Right now, it looks like JB will play against the Cleveland Cavaliers, but fans should check back closer to tipoff for a final status update. The Dallas Mavericks have dominated the recent matchups against Cleveland, but the Cavaliers will be a tough test on Nov. 29. Do not miss the action.