The Dallas Mavericks’ season has taken another hit with the news that Kyrie Irving will be sidelined for at least one to two weeks due to a bulging disc in his back. This latest setback comes served with another disappointing loss, this time to the also injured Memphis Grizzlies, further complicating the Mavericks’ playoff aspirations.
Irving’s absence is a significant blow to a team already struggling without Luka Dončić. The Mavericks have yet to win a game this season with both stars out of the lineup, and the road ahead looks challenging. The upcoming schedule includes matchups against formidable opponents like the Lakers, Nuggets, Celtics, and Thunder.
The injury timeline for Irving remains uncertain. While initial reports suggest a one to two-week absence, historical data on disc issues in the NBA paints a more concerning picture. According to injury tracking expert Jeff Stotts, the average time lost for in-season disc herniations that don’t require surgery is 20 to 28 days, potentially sidelining Irving for up to 12 games.
Mavericks’ Offensive Struggles
In the recent loss to the Grizzlies, the Mavericks’ offensive woes were on full display. After a strong first quarter, the team’s shooting went cold, with key players like PJ Washington, Naji Marshall, and Klay Thompson all shooting below 35% from the field. The absence of both Irving and Dončić was palpable, as the team struggled to generate consistent offense throughout the game.
Defensive Challenges
The Mavericks’ defensive efforts were also compromised, with the team committing 22 fouls and allowing the Grizzlies to attempt 35 free throws. This trend of increased fouling in games without their star duo has become a concerning pattern for the Mavericks.
Looking Ahead
As the Mavericks navigate this challenging stretch, the focus may shift to player development. There’s potential for young players like Dereck Lively to expand their offensive repertoire and gain valuable experience during this period.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Mavericks’ current situation, tune into the Locked On Mavericks podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Mavericks Podcast:
• Daniel Gafford’s ankle injury and its impact on the Mavericks’ rotation
• The potential for increased minutes for Dwight Powell
• Analyzing the Mavericks’ offensive strategies without Irving and Dončić
