Luka Dončić Out for Mavericks vs. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Thunder with Knee Injury from

Luka Dončić Ruled Out vs. Thunder Due to Knee Injury

Mavericks Star to Miss Matchup with Gilgeous-Alexander

Expected Return Timeline Unclear

Dallas Mavericks star Luka Dončić has been ruled out of Friday's game against the Oklahoma City Thunder due to a knee injury, the team announced on Thursday.

Dončić suffered the injury during the Mavericks' 111-106 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday night. He played 32 minutes in the game and finished with 26 points, 9 rebounds, and 8 assists.

The severity of Dončić's injury is unclear, and the Mavericks have not provided a timeline for his return. However, the team is expected to provide more information on his status prior to Friday's game.

Dončić's absence is a major blow to the Mavericks, who are currently 13-16 and sit in 11th place in the Western Conference. The team has struggled to find consistency this season, and Dončić's injury will only make things more difficult.

In Dončić's absence, the Mavericks will likely turn to Spencer Dinwiddie and Jalen Brunson to lead the offense. Dinwiddie is averaging 17.7 points and 5.0 assists per game this season, while Brunson is averaging 16.3 points and 4.7 assists per game.

The Thunder, meanwhile, are 15-14 and sit in ninth place in the Western Conference. They have been one of the league's most surprising teams this season, and they will be looking to take advantage of Dončić's absence on Friday.

Injury Impact

Dončić is the Mavericks' leading scorer, rebounder, and assister.
The Mavericks are 2-4 without Dončić in the lineup this season.
The Thunder are 7-3 at home this season.

Key Matchup

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander vs. Spencer Dinwiddie
Gilgeous-Alexander is averaging 31.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game.
Dinwiddie is averaging 17.7 points and 5.0 assists per game.

Prediction

The Thunder are a tough team at home, and they will be looking to take advantage of Dončić's absence. However, the Mavericks have a talented team, and they should be able to stay competitive. I predict the Thunder will win a close game, 115-110.