Luka Doncic's Injury Status Downgraded to Questionable for Game 2 of NBA Finals

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ICARO Media Group
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09/06/2024 20h42

Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic has been downgraded to questionable for Game 2 of the NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics on Sunday night. Doncic is battling a chest contusion, a right knee sprain, and left ankle soreness, as reported by the team's injury report. Despite his injuries, Doncic is expected to suit up and play in the crucial game.

Throughout the playoffs, Doncic has been dealing with various injuries, which have affected his shooting percentages. However, his performances on the court have remained exceptional, often making him the best player on the floor. In 18 playoff games this year, Doncic has been averaging an impressive 28.8 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 8.4 assists. He currently ranks seventh in scoring, tenth in rebounding, and third in assists among all players.

Doncic's availability for each game has been unwavering, even when previously listed as questionable. However, in a series where the Mavericks are already down 1-0, it is concerning that their star player's status had to be downgraded just hours before the game.

The setback comes after the Mavericks' disappointing loss in Game 1, where they were outplayed by the Celtics, trailing by as much as 29 points in the first half. Doncic played 38 minutes in that game, finishing with 30 points and 10 rebounds. However, he struggled with his shooting and only recorded one assist, which was his lowest in any game where he played at least 35 minutes. The Celtics' defense limited his impact on the game by not allowing him to involve his teammates.

While Doncic's knee and ankle issues have been ongoing concerns, the thoracic contusion is a new injury. A social media post from Mavericks practice showed Doncic wincing and grabbing at his chest, though the origin of the injury remains unclear.

For the Mavericks to have a chance of bouncing back in this series, they will heavily rely on Doncic's scoring and playmaking abilities. However, the addition of a new injury certainly raises further challenges for the team.

Game 2 is scheduled to tip-off at 8 p.m. ET and is considered a must-win for the Mavericks. Historical data shows that teams that go down 2-0 in a seven-game series have only managed to make a comeback in the Finals five times, with a success rate of only 7.4%. The Mavericks will undoubtedly be aiming to defy the odds and turn the series in their favor.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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