MIAMI — The Dallas Mavericks could play their final home game of the regular season against the Detroit Pistons without Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic. With their 50th win of the season and a top-5 seed in the Western Conference, the Mavs will face the Los Angeles Clippers in the first round of the playoffs.
Irving was ruled out of the game against the Pistons due to a sore left hamstring, and Doncic is doubtful to play due to a sore left ankle.
April 10, 2024. Miami, Florida, USA.Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic (77) speaks with forward Derrick
Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports
Irving's absence halted a streak of 31 consecutive games since his return from a sprained right thumb on February 5th. In the team's recent win over the Miami Heat, Irving finished with 25 points. The performance was part of a major milestone for Irving, appearing in his 58th game of the season, securing the Mavs' 50th win and earning him a $1 million contract incentive.
When asked about the possibility of not playing meaningful games until the playoffs, Irving seemed excited about the opportunity to get some rest.
“Yes, yes, yes. That's great,” Irving said. “You said 10 to 11 days, right? I don't take that for granted. Yes, sir.”
Doncic missed just two games last month. He had 29 points, nine rebounds, and nine assists against the Heat. He has recently suffered from soreness in his right knee, which caused him to miss last Friday's game against the Golden State Warriors.
Doncic had a busy summer competing in the FIBA World Cup, but said he is used to such a grueling schedule and feels good. Like Irving, Doncic will likely get a chance to rest before the end of the regular season.
“I'm used to playing all summer now,” Doncic said. “A lot of games, so I've got a lot of games under my feet. That's it. I feel good.
The Mavs have already clinched the Southwest Division title and at least a top-five spot in the Western Conference, and are poised for a playoff showdown with the Los Angeles Clippers.
Additionally, coach Jason Kidd said rookie center Derek Lively II, who is suffering from a sprained right knee, is unlikely to play in the final two games of the regular season. He has already been ruled out of the game against the Pistons.
