Both Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis will be absent when the Dallas Mavericks take on the Memphis Grizzlies on Saturday night, according to team reports.
Before the match, the Mavs disclosed that both athletes were nursing injuries.
Porzingis was already sidelined with a knee issue during Friday’s game.
Another match will likely be required for his return.
Despite scoring 21 points in Friday’s 107-91 defeat to the New Orleans Pelicans, Doncic will be absent from Saturday’s match due to discomfort in his left ankle.
The Mavs have confirmed that Luka Dončić (left ankle discomfort), Kristaps Porzingis (left knee contusion), and Willie Cauley-Stein (personal matters) will be missing from tonight’s game against Memphis.
— Marc J. Spears (@MarcJSpears) December 4, 2021
Moreover, Willie Cauley-Stein will also be sidelined for personal reasons.
The Mavericks will surely feel the absence of both Doncic and Porzingis.
Doncic, the team’s top scorer, puts up an average of 25.4 points per game, while Porzingis, the second top scorer, manages 19.7 points per game.
Meanwhile, the Memphis Grizzlies will still be without their key guard and top scorer, Ja Morant, as he recuperates from a severe knee injury.
Currently, the Dallas Mavericks hold a record of 11-10 for the season, securing the fifth spot in the Western Conference.
On the other hand, the Grizzlies have a marginally better record, at 12-10, placing them fourth in the West.
It is unclear if Doncic will miss more games due to the injury.
Interestingly, the Mavericks show stronger defensive play in Doncic’s absence.
Their defense notably improves when Doncic is not on the court.
Image Source: Dallas Mavericks @ Instagram
