The Dallas Mavericks are breathing a sigh of relief as Luka Doncic makes his highly anticipated return to the lineup for the game against the Portland Trail Blazers on December 23, 2024. Doncic, who missed the last two games due to a troublesome left heel contusion suffered during the Mavericks' thrilling victory over the Golden State Warriors, is back just when the team needed him the most.
Before his injury, Doncic showcased his scoring prowess by averaging 28.9 points per game, currently ranking fifth in the league. Last season, he outdid every other player by capturing the scoring title with 33.9 points per game, demonstrating his extraordinary talent on the court. His ability to create scoring opportunities is underscored by his ranking seventh for assists this season, dishing out 8.2 assists per game. His most recent performance prior to the injury was particularly remarkable as he recorded a stat-stuffed triple-double, finishing with 45 points, 13 assists, and 11 rebounds, helping the Mavericks secure a wild 143-133 victory.
But it wasn’t just Doncic’s absence weighing on the Mavericks. The team faced mounting injury woes with other key players sidelined. Jaden Hardy, Dante Exum, and Brandon Williams were already out, leaving the Mavericks scrambling to fill the gaps. Exum, who underwent wrist surgery, and Williams, nursing a right thumb strain, added to the Mavs’ depth challenges. Notably, the Trail Blazers also had their share of misfortunes, with players like Matisse Thybulle out due to injury.
Looking at the upcoming matchup, Doncic’s return is expected to provide the spark the Mavericks need. The question on everyone’s mind is whether he will be able to perform at his usual elite level after sitting out. Doncic entered the game with the status of ‘questionable’ but it was updated before tip-off, confirming his availability. The game marks not just the end of his two-game absence but also presents the first matchup against the Trail Blazers since Doncic returned from his earlier injury earlier this season, during which he led his team with 36 points, 13 assists, and seven rebounds.
This game is underlined with increased significance, especially with the Western Conference Finals rematch looming against another rival team later this week. The Mavericks, who have climbed to fourth place in the Western Conference with 18 wins and 10 losses, are on the heels of their most notable streak—winning 13 of their last 16 games after overcoming their only losing streak this season.
Doncic has previously expressed his desire to be healthy for the playoffs, emphasizing his commitment to guiding the Mavericks to victory and pursuing their championship aspirations. With this game against the Trail Blazers, fans and analysts alike will be observing closely to see just how impactful his return will be for the Mavericks.
Given the current state of the Mavericks, Doncic’s presence is likely to be pivotal. The team’s depth chart will be tested not just by the Trail Blazers' talent but by their slumping injury report, making every minute from Doncic on the court invaluable. It’s not just about scoring but also his playmaking and leadership abilities, which have proven so effective this season.
The rivalry between the Mavericks and the Trail Blazers adds another layer of excitement to this showdown. Their past ten matchups reflect the Mavericks' dominance with an 8-2 record against the Trail Blazers, but past victories mean little; every game is independent and the Trail Blazers will come ready to compete.
Are the Mavericks ready for this challenge? Can they continue their winning ways, or will they falter without their star? With Doncic back, the stakes are as high as ever, and all eyes will be on the court tonight at the American Airlines Center. Mavericks fans can finally breathe easier, knowing their leader is back to steer the ship as they aim to build on their recent success.
