Mavs Injury Report: Is Luka Doncic Playing vs Shai Gilgeous Alexander and Co?

After a successful three-game road trip to Pennsylvania and New York, concluding with an impressive 14-point win over the Knicks, the Dallas Mavericks now head home. The 122-108 win over the New York Knicks saw Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving combine for 55 points, 13 rebounds, and 17 assists. This is exactly the momentum the Mavs are hoping for when they host the Oklahoma City Thunder tonight at the American Airlines Center.

The two teams will meet for the second time this season after the Mavs routed the young Thunder squad in a 126-120 victory. Notably, it was Luka Doncic‘s 36 points, 18 assists, and 15 boards that propelled the team toward the win. Keeping this in mind, maintaining the upper hand tonight will be a tall task for the Mavs since the Slovenian phenom’s availability tonight is in question.

Luka Doncic is ‘probable’ for tonight’s game versus OKC

The Mavericks have listed Luka as ‘probable’ for Saturday’s game due to a broken nose that he sustained during the team’s victory against the Philadelphia 76ers on Feb. 5 after colliding with teammate Kyrie Irving. Since then, the 24-year-old has been listed as day-to-day before every game but has suited up for each one.

However, his availability tonight seems unlikely since he flared up the nose injury after getting hit in the face during the second quarter of the game against the Knicks. Although it would be better to take a cautious approach and rest Luka, the eighth-seeded Mavs, who are 3-5 in his absence and just two games shy of dropping out of the playoff picture, have little leeway to afford that.

In addition to Luka, Kyrie Irving is also probable due to a right thumb sprain. Moreover, Maxi Kleber (right small toe dislocation) is questionable, while Dereck Lively II (nasal fracture) and Dante Exum (right knee bursitis) are both already ruled out. Their newest acquisitions on the trade deadline, PJ Washington and Daniel Gafford, are also listed as game-time decisions.

On the other hand, the OKC is expected to field a healthy roster, with the sole exception being their recent addition, Gordan Hayward, who will not suit up until after the All-Star break as he nurses a left calf strain.

Dallas Mavericks vs. OKC Thunder: Predicted starting lineups

The OKC Thunder side, which was expected to bottom out and tank as they embark on a rebuilding journey, has been one of the most pleasant surprises this season. Their young core is currently occupying the second spot in the Eastern Conference standings and is in the top 5 in offensive and defensive ratings. However, their recent performances have been shaky, as evidenced by their recent 117-124 loss to the Utah Jazz on the road on Tuesday. They have dropped their last five road games, while the Mavs have a 14-13 home record.

The Thunder might start their game with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Josh Giddey, Lu Dort, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren. Meanwhile, the Mavs’ starting lineup might feature Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving, Josh Green, Derrick Jones Jr., and Maxi Kleber.

Read More: Stunned By Kyrie Irving’s Error, Luka Doncic Reveals Reality Of 31YO Mavericks Superstar

Do you think the Mavs will be able to extend their winning streak to four? Or will OKC dominate the team on the road? Let us know in the comments!

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