Mavericks: Kristaps Porzingis (back) out vs. Spurs

The Dallas Mavericks topped the Houston Rockets in their home opener on Oct. 26, but star big man Kristaps Porzingis suffered a back injury during the game. He checked out in the third quarter and never returned with what the team called “low back tightness”.

The Unicorn was listed as questionable coming into Thursday’s game against the rival San Antonio Spurs, but he was ruled out well in advance of tipoff. It is the first of a back-to-back set for Dallas, and they will also be without Sterling Brown (ankle) and Trey Burke (health and safety protocols).

The Mavs will need someone to step up to replace Kristaps Porzingis. Who will do that for Dallas?

Dallas Mavericks star Kristaps Porzingis out vs. Spurs with back injury

The Mavs added depth this offseason, and they will have to rely on it with KP out. It will be interesting to see who Jason Kidd starts, but Dallas is likely to play more small ball with Jalen Brunson or Reggie Bullock replacing Porzingis on the floor. Maxi Kleber will also see an uptick in his minutes against the Spurs.

Replacing KP’s scoring will have to be done by committee. The Mavericks will need Tim Hardaway Jr., Brunson, and the bench to all step up and support Luka Doncic if Dallas is going to pick up a win on Thursday night.

The Mavs will miss Kristaps Porzingis’ rim protection the most against the Spurs because they have no replacement. Could fans see more Boban Marjanovic as Dallas attempts to control the paint? The 7'4 big man is questionable with a back injury of his own, but if he is healthy, Bobi could be a strong option. Read more about how the Mavericks will adjust without KP here.

Kristaps Porzingis has little time to rest as the Dallas Mavericks are back in action on Friday night against the Denver Nuggets in an important game in the Western Conference standings. Supporters should consider the Unicorn questionable at best for that contest, especially as the Mavs have to travel to Colorado for the game.

Keep it locked to The Smoking Cuban for all the latest on KP’s back injury, and everything Dallas Mavericks fans crave this season.