NBA
Mavs coach Kidd looking for Luka Doncic alternative
The Slovenian star has not been included in the Mavericks' squad for their upcoming game.
Luka Doncic will play no part in the Dallas Mavericks' NBA game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday January 3 as the Slovenian recovers from injury.
Manager Jason Kidd will have to look for alternatives to his key player as they take on the side at the top of the Eastern Conference in the NBA. Ahead of the game, the Mavericks sit 5th in the Western Conference.
Doncic suffered a calf strain during the Christmas Day clash against the Minnesota Timberwolves, and he is yet to recover. The official injury status of the player is ‘out’, meaning that he will certainly play no part in the game having not been given the green light by medical staff ahead of time.
What is Doncic’s record so far this season?
Without Doncic the Mavericks have struggled greatly, going three consecutive games without a win after a victory against the Suns post Christmas. This season, prior to the injury, Doncic had averaged 28.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, 7.8 assists and 46.4% from the field.
However, in lighter news for Mavs fans, Kyrie Irving will feature during the game after being dropped from the injury list in time to make Kidd’s squad.
Nevertheless, the task for the Mavericks is simply colossal: the Cleveland side have been in stunning form all season long and hold an astonishing 29-4 record so far. Without Doncic, the uphill battle for the Mavericks will be even greater.
The game between the Mavericks and the Cavaliers will take place at 8:30pm ET at American Airlines Center.
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.