Sources told Brian Windhorst that Luka Doncic would miss Game 1 against the Jazz. 0:50
Luka Doncic will not play in the first game of the Utah Jazz series because of a strained left calf, and his availability for the second game is questionable, according to sources.
Doncic has not practiced since he injured his ankle in the third quarter. He was jogging on a treadmill during Thursday's practice after undergoing extensive treatment.
Mavs coach Jason Kidd said that he was in good spirits and that he was improving.
The severity and location of the injury can affect the recovery timetable. According to information compiled by InStreetClothes.com, NBA players who suffered calf strains missed an average of 16 days.
The Mavs have refused to give an estimated timetable for his return or specify the grade of Doncic's strain.
The 19-year-old Doncic has played despite injuries in his previous two playoff appearances.
In 2020, Doncic was listed as questionable for Game 4 against the LA Clippers because of an ankle injury, but was not cleared to play until after his pre-game warm ups. He had 43 points, 17 rebound and 11 assists in the Mavs victory over the Clippers, which he capped with a step-back 3-pointer to beat the buzzer.
In the series against the Clippers, Doncic had a strain in his neck that limited his range of motion. He rebounded from his poor performance in Dallas with a 42 point, eight rebound, 14 assist performance in the Mavs win.
If Doncic returns before the injury is fully healed, he could be out for the rest of the playoffs.
Kidd said earlier this week that if he can't play, we won't put him in a situation to make things worse.
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