UPDATE: Luka Doncic's Injury Status For Spurs-Mavs Game

Extended Absence for Doncic

The Dallas Mavericks have dealt with a string of injuries this season, and the latest setback involves their star player, Luka Doncic. The team announced that Doncic will be sidelined for an extended period due to a left calf strain.

Specifics of the Injury

Doncic suffered the injury during the Mavericks' 128-112 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday night. He played just over 20 minutes before leaving the game in the third quarter. An MRI confirmed the severity of the strain, and further testing will determine the exact timeline for his return.

The Mavericks have not provided a specific timetable for Doncic's absence, but similar injuries can take several weeks to heal. This is a significant blow to Dallas, as Doncic is their leading scorer and playmaker.

Impact on the Mavericks

Doncic's absence will have a major impact on the Mavericks' playoff hopes. The team is currently in sixth place in the Western Conference standings, just one game ahead of the seventh-place Minnesota Timberwolves. With Doncic out, the Mavericks will need to find a way to replace his production, which will be a difficult task.

Potential Replacements

The Mavericks have a few options to fill the void left by Doncic. One possibility is to move Spencer Dinwiddie to point guard and insert Dorian Finney-Smith into the starting lineup. Another option is to give more minutes to rookie Jaden Hardy, who has shown some promise this season.

Regardless of who replaces Doncic, the Mavericks will need to step up as a team to make up for his absence. They have a tough schedule ahead, with games against the Denver Nuggets, Memphis Grizzlies, and Los Angeles Clippers coming up in the next week.

Conclusion

Luka Doncic's injury is a major setback for the Dallas Mavericks. The team will need to find a way to replace his production and step up as a team if they want to make a run in the playoffs.