Mavs Injury Updates: Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving, Dereck Lively II & More
DALLAS — As the Dallas Mavericks prepare to face the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday, the team had a rare two-day window off since their last outing by practicing at their facility on Friday. Luka Doncic was not on the Mavs' injury report before facing the Bucks, but it remains lengthy.
Maxi Kleber (nasal fracture) is probable to play after being considered questionable. Derrick Jones Jr. (left wrist sprain) is questionable to play, too. Kyrie Irving (right thumb sprain) and Dereck Lively II (nasal fracture) were initially considered questionable but downgraded to doubtful. Dante Exum (right knee bursitis) remains out. The team also ruled out Olivier-Maxence Prosper and Greg Brown III for G League assignments.
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Doncic has dealt with a right ankle sprain for some time, resulting in him sitting against the Timberwolves after putting up 45 points, 15 assists, and nine rebounds in the Mavs' win over the Orlando Magic on Monday.
Irving has been sidelined for the Mavs' five games due to a right thumb sprain. He worked out at Target Center before the game while wearing a wrap. It looked like a regular pre-game workout for him as he continues to manage it.
Irving participated in Friday's practice and was also seen shooting jump shots in part of a workout group with Seth Curry and Grant Williams during the portion open to the media. It's an encouraging sign of his progression as he works back to return to competition.
After being struck in the face by Wendell Carter Jr. during the Mavs' win over the Magic, Lively suffered a broken nose. He was sidelined for Wednesday's game in Minnesota but was fitted for a mask that he practiced with on Friday.
Lively told reporters after Friday's practice that he will undergo surgery on Monday to "re-set" his nose. He could play on Saturday but will miss Monday's game against the Philadelphia 76ers next week. His return after the procedure will be determined based on how he feels after the surgery.
Jones sprained his left wrist after falling hard due to a failed dunk attempt against the Atlanta Hawks on January 26. He was ruled out for the second half of the game and has not appeared in a game since. He was considered doubtful to play entering Wednesday's game before being ruled out.
Exum was also considered doubtful to play against the Timberwolves before being ruled out as he continues to deal with right knee bursitis. His injury designation changed from "soreness" to "bursitis," he began missing games after being a late scratch ahead of Saturday's matchup against the Sacramento Kings.
More updates about the Mavs' injuries will be provided before Saturday's game against the Bucks. Check back with DallasBasketball.com for more information.
