Luka Doncic, the NBA’s second-leading scorer, has been officially listed by the Dallas Mavericks as probable in tonight’s game against the New Orleans Pelicans. Doncic felt discomfort with his ankle in the Mavericks’ 124-95 loss to the Boston Celtics last Thursday.
The three-time NBA All-Star saw 31 minutes of action in that game and finished with 23 points, nine rebounds and three assists. “Luka Legend” did not play in the fourth quarter due to the lopsided score favoring the Celtics and because of a sore left ankle.
Boston did a magnificent job containing Doncic, who had scored at least 30 points in his six previous games before the loss to the Celtics. Thursday’s loss to the Celtics snapped a seven-game winning streak, their longest run since the 2011 championship team led by Dirk Nowitzki.
Over the last 10 games, the three-time All-NBA superstar has averaged 36.7 points, 9.8 rebounds and 8.8 assists. He is also shooting 51.5%, including 39.0% from behind the arc.
Unless there’s a setback, Luka Doncic is expected to suit up tonight for the Dallas Mavericks.
Meanwhile, Andrew Iguodala could make his debut tonight for the Golden State Warriors when they host the young Orlando Magic. The four-time NBA champion has not played this season yet as he was rehabbing an injured hip.
“Iggy” announced in his podcast “Point Forward,” that he will open his season against the Magic. Iguodala’s return could not have come at a better time. The defending NBA champions will be without Steph Curry, who has a shoulder injury, James Wiseman, Jonathan Kuminga, JaMychal Green and probably Andrew Wiggins.
Golden State’s Andre Iguodala announces on his Point Forward podcast with Evan Turner that he will make his season debut on Saturday vs. the Orlando Magic. https://t.co/nSxlJBDBWZ
The 2015 NBA Finals MVP has largely played as an assistant to head coach Steve Kerr while he has been sidelined. He, however, still brings more than just veteran leadership and smarts.
Kerr could ease Iguodala into the rotation and could play 15-20 minutes if he’s available.
Andrew Wiggins: Right adductor strain/Non-covid illness; Injured since December 3, 2022
Andrew Wiggins is probable for tomorrow’s game against the Magic. It is expected to be the end of the longest absence of his career. He’s missed the previous 15 games. Never missed more than 11 total games in any season.
Just when he was ready to return, the NBA All-Star forward contracted a non-Covid related illness. If things go as expected after the morning shootaround, Wiggins’ availability should be made official.
“Maple Jordan” is averaging 19.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.4 steals in 22 games this season. The Warriors will be extremely happy to welcome Wiggins back as they deal with injuries to different key players, including Steph Curry.
Malik Monk Left lower leg soreness; Injured since January 4, 2023
The Sacramento Kings are listing Malik Monk as questionable vs. the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday due to left lower leg soreness. Monk did not participate in practice today.