Luka Doncic and the Dallas Mavericks have been galloping through the first round of the playoffs. The first game went to the Kawhi Leonard-less Los Angeles Clippers, despite spectacular 30-point efforts by both Doncic and Kyrie Irving. However, after Leonard made a comeback to the Clippers, they have lost two in a row, but this time another concern casts a shadow of doubt on the Mavs postseason.

During the first half of Game 3, Doncic appeared to limp toward the locker room after Russell Westbrook clipped him, while he was trying to steal the ball. Blindsided, Doncic immediately fell on the floor after tripping, later limping back to the bench. This clash is a major cause of concern for Dallas. Although the 25-year-old returned within minutes and contributed on both ends of the floor to overturn a 23-18 first-quarter deficit, fear still might linger.

According to Luka Doncic, though, he will try his best to return for Game 4. “Luka Doncic on his knee injury in the first quarter: “Not good, I felt it before I hit the knee. It’s pretty stiff right now, but we’ll know more tomorrow. You know me, I’ll try to go anyway,” stated an X post by Grant Afseth.

Undoubtedly, the series has been pretty challenging for Doncic, even so, he has managed to put up the best numbers cumulatively, averaging 29 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 8 assists. While the Mavs do have one more home game and a lead over the Clippers, if Luka is not 100%, the road will not be an easy one for them.

However, other than the Slovenian, the Mavericks have had Kyrie to carry the load, and he’s firing on all cylinders. Still, one has to wonder about the Mavs without Luka.

Can the Mavericks win without Luka Donic?

Awaiting the latest updates on Doncic’s reports is the last hope for the Mavericks. While Irving is averaging 25 points, 5.7 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 2.3 steals, it will be difficult for him to carry the team without the 25-year-old. The Clippers have much more experience and a more well-rounded roster to take Dallas down if they slip up in Doncic’s absence.

James Harden has been a playoff revelation for the Clippers, leading them in most stats. The Claw has been rusty since returning from injury, but both Paul George and Ivica Zubac are playing at their highest levels. Although Westbrook was ejected for his antics with a tech, he had also significantly contributed to the Clippers from the bench. Even if the Mavs win game 4 at home, they head back to Clip’s home, where the veteran team can make the series closer to a 7-game series.

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