The Dallas Mavericks are currently struggling with a significant injury crisis. After Luka Doncic missed the last game due to a calf strain, there’s more to the Mavs’ misery. They will be taking on the Easter Conference chart topper Cleveland Cavaliers, and things are not looking good for Dallas.
The injury report looks a bit more messy for the Mavs. After Luka Doncic has already been listed out due to his left calf strain, which would keep him out for a long time, a few more join the list. The latest addition to the tally is PJ Washington. Adding to the Mavericks’ challenges, P.J. Washington and Maxi Kleber have both been listed as questionable due to recent injuries.
Washington suffered a right knee sprain in the second quarter of their previous game against the Houston Rockets. It forced him out for the remainder of that contest and it’s concerning given his previous knee injury in November, which had already sidelined him for five games.
Dallas Mavericks Injury Report vs. Cleveland Cavaliers:
— Grant Afseth (@GrantAfseth) January 2, 2025
P.J. Washington: Questionable (Right Knee Sprain)
Maxi Kleber: Questionable (Right Oblique Strain)
Luka Dončić: Out (Left Calf Strain)
Naji Marshall: Out (Suspension)
Danté Exum: Out (Right Wrist Surgery)
Other than these two top liners, Maxi Kleber is also listed as questionable due to right oblique strain. Naji Marshall and Dante Exum are out with suspension and right wrist surgery respectively.
Dallas Mavericks Will Face A Tough January Without Luka Doncic
The Mavericks are bracing for a challenging January that could impact their season. They will be going through a run without their star guard Doncic. Their next matchup with the Cavs would be the first test of their depth, as they are already going against a 29-4 team.
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Once they are done with Cleveland, Oklahoma City Thunder, Denver Nuggets Memphis Grizzlies and Los Angeles Lakers would be next in line to make it more challenging. Adding to their woes, the Mavericks are dealing with injuries to key players, including P.J. Washington.
REPORT: PJ Washington will NOT return to tonight’s game (right knee sprain).
— Mavs Lead (@MavsLead) January 2, 2025
What on earth did the Mavs do to deserve this pic.twitter.com/0toSCQvITW
The Mavericks are eager to end their three-game losing streak to secure their spot in the Western Conference, where they sit fifth with a 20-14 record.
With tough opponents on the horizon, they need to step up and improve their play. With what we know so far, Luka Doncic will be out for a bit longer and Dallas will have to actively make the adjustments given the challenges lined up for them.
