Published 01/27/2023, 12:54 AM EST
The Dallas Mavericks walked into the Phoenix Suns’ arena with two back-to-back defeats. The desperation to bag a win haunted them as players focused on controlling the narrative of the game from tip-off. However, four minutes into the game, the team, the bench, and NBA fans gasped as the franchise cornerstone Luka Doncic yelped in pain in the middle of the court.
During a Mavs possession, Doncic looked to shoot from the paint. As he navigated his way through the play, he stepped on the foot of a Suns’ defender and twisted his left ankle. The NBA star immediately winced in pain and threw the ball away. Seconds later, during the timeout, Doncic hobbled off the court.
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He was helped off the court by Casey Smith, the director of player health and performance. The Mavs organization announced that the four-time NBA All-Star would not be coming back to the court. Furthermore, a report by ESPN claimed that Doncic’s x-ray was negative.
NBA fans pray for Luka Doncic
Looking at the turn of events, the hearts of the NBA community sank as they prayed for Doncic’s quick recovery. They wrote online that this was painful and grew frustrated as the feeling of helplessness consumed them. Fans expressed that if something serious were to happen to him, then the Mavs would look deflated on the court in the coming weeks. They predicted that the team would now be lost and confused without their leader.
Here are some more reactions from NBA Twitter:
Luka Doncic’s season so far
This season, the Slovenian international has been averaging 33.8 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 8.6 assists per game so far. He has led the Mavs to victory after victory and caused chaos on the court. Most times, when the Mavs have struggled, Doncic has come in clutch and answered the call of duty.
Jan 26, 2023; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic (77) reacts after getting injured against the Phoenix Suns in the first half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports
While doing so, he has broken records and left fans in awe of his jaw-dropping performance. Hence, the air of worry around the organization is justified. Additionally, in the five games that Doncic has been off the court this season, the team has lost each one of them.
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If the injury turns out to be serious, the Mavs will have to devise ways to win without the influence of their leader. Furthermore, his participation in the All-Star Weekend now hangs by a fine thread. Fans will be eagerly awaiting an update on Doncic’s situation.
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Do you think the Mavs can win without their franchise superstar? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.