DALLAS — In a major boost for the Dallas Mavericks, Luka Doncic has been upgraded from questionable to available for Game 4 against the Los Angeles Clippers. He did pre-match training as an in-game decision before being promoted. The game is scheduled for Sunday afternoon at American Airlines Center.
This update comes after he collided with Clippers center Ivica Zubac in Game 2, causing knee pain. After Saturday's practice, Mavericks coach Jason Kidd expressed optimism about Doncic's status.
“He looked good in the video and in the free throw shooting, so I'm going to stay in my lane and let the medical team have the official updates,” Kidd said.
April 28, 2024. Dallas, Texas, USA.Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic (77) warms up before the game
Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Despite initially feeling discomfort, Doncic showed remarkable resilience and would play in Game 4 if possible, even though he felt his knee was “pretty stiff” after Game 3. He said he intended to do so.
“I felt my knee stiff before the collision. It's pretty stiff right now, but you know, I'm going to play,” Doncic said after Game 3.
Despite not being at 100%, Doncic remains a key piece for the Mavericks, playing a pivotal role in securing the win in the final game. He had an outstanding performance in the playoffs, averaging 29.0 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 8.0 assists per game.
The Clippers are facing some adversity with Kawhi Leonard out indefinitely due to inflammation in his right knee, leading to significant differences in the lineup as the series progresses.
As Game 4 approaches, the Mavericks are counting on Doncic's impact on the court, especially as other members of the team such as Olivier-Maxence Prosper and Tim Hardaway Jr. are also dealing with injuries.
The Mavericks and their fans are eagerly anticipating Doncic's performance in what is expected to be a key game of the series.
The Clippers will be without Kawhi Leonard for the time being. The injury caused by inflammation in his right knee did not heal as expected, and he was sidelined for more than three weeks, including Game 1 of this series.
