The Dallas Mavericks have some issues that need to be addressed immediately. On Sunday afternoon in Charlotte, North Carolina, against the Hornets, they will have their second chance in as many days to do so.
Latest news on Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving for Sunday’s game
The Mavericks (36-38) have dropped two straight home games. Friday’s game against the Hornets was a particularly disappointing loss.
The Mavericks finished 11th in the Western Conference, eliminating them from playoff contention.
Charlotte (24-51) beat Dallas (24-50) 117-109 on Friday night despite playing without guards Terry Rozier (foot) and Kelly Oubre Jr. (personal). (shoulder injury).
The Hornets, however, saw this outcome coming. A 69-55 halftime deficit to the Hornets was a reflection of the Mavericks’ lack of determination.
In 37 minutes of action, Luka Doncic tallied 34 points (12-23 FG, 2-9 3Pt, 8-10 FT), 10 rebounds, 8 assists, and 1 block.
Doncic once again led the Mavericks, but he can’t do it all by himself, and despite him coming within two assists of a triple-double, Dallas still lost in shocking fashion.
Despite the team’s struggles, Doncic’s recent play has been outstanding. He’s played in six games this month, averaging 30.7 points, 9.2 dimes, and 7.2 boards.
Dallas guard Kyrie Irving scored 18 points on Friday after coming back from a sore foot he sustained earlier in the week.
Although Irving has been spectacular in the four games he has played in over Dallas’ last eight, his absences have been a blow to fantasy managers, especially in leagues that have already qualified for the postseason.
Irving scored 28 and 33 points for the Brooklyn Nets against the Charlotte Hornets before being traded to the Mavericks.
Injury report Mavericks:
- Tim Hardaway Jr. (Illness) – Questionable
Injury report Hornets:
- Kelly Oubre Jr. (Shoulder) – Questionable
- Terry Rozier (Foot) – Questionable
- Cody Martin (Knee) – Out
- LaMelo Ball (Ankle) – Out for the season
