The Mavericks will need to lean on their remaining roster and adaptability to push through this challenging stretch of injuries…
The Dallas Mavericks are navigating a turbulent period as injuries plague key players, casting doubt on their prospects in the fiercely competitive Western Conference. The most pressing concern centers on star guard Luka Dončić, whose absence has been profoundly felt.
**Luka Dončić’s Uncertain Timeline**
Dončić suffered a left calf strain on December 25, 2024, during a game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Initially slated for re-evaluation after a month, recent reports suggest optimism within the Mavericks’ organization about his potential return before the All-Star break in mid-February. However, as of now, no definitive update has been provided, leaving fans and analysts in suspense. ([wfaa.com](https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/nba/mavericks/luka-doncic-dallas-mavs-injury-update/287-764264f3-ee71-4d11-b010-eb699a9d179a?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
**Frontcourt Woes Deepen**
The Mavericks’ frontcourt has been severely impacted by injuries:
– **Dereck Lively II**: The 20-year-old center, who was averaging 9.1 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game, is sidelined for at least two months due to a foot fracture. ([as.com](https://as.com/baloncesto/nba/lively-se-pierde-al-menos-dos-meses-con-los-mavs-por-una-fractura-en-el-pie-n/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
– **Maxi Kleber**: The versatile forward suffered a broken right foot during a recent loss to the Boston Celtics. The team has not provided a specific timeline for his return, but such injuries typically require extended recovery periods. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/sports/report-mavs-fc-maxi-kleber-miss-time-with-broken-foot-2025-01-26/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
– **Dwight Powell**: The veteran big man is dealing with a hip injury. While his return is anticipated soon, the exact timing remains uncertain.
**Impact on Team Performance**
Since Dončić’s injury, the Mavericks have struggled, posting a 5-10 record and slipping to the seventh seed in the Western Conference with a 24-21 overall record. ([wfaa.com](https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/nba/mavericks/luka-doncic-dallas-mavs-injury-update/287-764264f3-ee71-4d11-b010-eb699a9d179a?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) The absence of key frontcourt players has further exacerbated the team’s challenges, particularly in defense and rebounding.
**Stepping Up in Adversity**
In Dončić’s absence, forward P.J. Washington has emerged as a significant contributor. Over 21 games without Dončić, Washington has averaged 16.4 points and 8.9 rebounds per game, including a standout 30-point performance against the Minnesota Timberwolves. ([nypost.com](https://nypost.com/2025/01/23/betting/mavericks-vs-thunder-predictions-nba-thursday-picks-odds-best-bets/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
**Looking Ahead**
The Mavericks face a challenging schedule ahead:
The team and its fans are hopeful for Dončić’s return before the All-Star break, but until then, the Mavericks must rely on their depth and resilience to navigate this injury-riddled period.
