2 min read • April 21, 2022
Posted in
Despite burgeoning optimism of a return tonight the Mavericks have ruled out star Luka Doncic for Game 3 against the Jazz.
Doncic hasn't played since suffering a left calf strain in the regular season finale on April 11. ESPN's Tim McMahon reported that Doncic was a game-time decision, but the team ultimately decided to hold Doncic out for at least another game.
He was upgraded to questionable and spoke to reporters on Wednesday. At the time he said he will play when there is little to no risk of re-injury but was uncertain if he would play Thursday.
Game 4 is scheduled for Saturday in Utah and Doncic’s return may hinge on where the series stands after Thursday night.
The ProBasketballDocs have projected since Monday that he will return at some point this series, when that is will be up to Doncic and the Mavericks.
Earlier today, we detailed why the 23-year-old will be limited on the defensive end when he returns, but should be strong enough on offense to give the Mavericks the boost they may need to advance to the second.
In the meantime, Jalen Brunson will continue to head the offense and try to steal a game on the road against Utah. Brunson, who is playing for a long-term contract, scored 41 points in Monday's Game 2 win.
The Mavericks are +8 against the Utah Jazz and the over/under is 208.5, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.
Written by
