Jason Kidd provided an update on Luka Doncic’s calf injury
On April 2, 2024, in San Francisco, Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic (77) raised his hand before heading to the team bench during the third quarter of a game against the Golden State Warriors at the Chase Center.
The Dallas Mavericks are set to face the Milwaukee Bucks in their final preseason game on Thursday night in Dallas. Jason Kidd was hoping for a “dress rehearsal” before the regular season, but that depends on Luka Doncic’s availability, which remains uncertain due to a calf contusion he sustained at the beginning of training camp.
After Wednesday’s practice, Coach Kidd said that Doncic participated fully and did “really, really well,” but also mentioned it’s unlikely that Doncic will play against the Bucks on Thursday.
Doncic has missed the entire preseason so far, and considering his injuries during last season’s playoffs, it seems wise to keep him out and ensure he’s fully healthy for the regular season. As the MVP favorite, there’s no reason to risk his health in a preseason game.
The Mavericks have dealt with several injuries in the preseason. Dante Exum is out for at least three months following wrist surgery, and both Maxi Kleber and Kessler Edwards are nursing ankle injuries. Other players are also dealing with various health issues. While P.J. Washington and Brandon Williams returned for Monday’s game against the Clippers, even Klay Thompson has been dealing with back tightness. With championship hopes, the team needs to focus on getting healthy.
There will be a week between the end of the preseason and the start of the regular season, giving Doncic time to be ready for the first game against the San Antonio Spurs on October 24th.
