Mavericks guard Luka Doncic. (Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports)
The Dallas Mavericks got good news on Luka Doncic’s recovery from his neck injury ahead of Game 5 against the Los Angeles Clippers.
The Mavericks’ hopes of regaining an advantage over the Clippers hinges on Luka Doncic overcoming the injury that has dogged him throughout the series.
There’s good news on that front. Rest appears to have done the point guard well.
According to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN, Doncic is being described as “improved” in his recovery from a neck strain a day removed from Game 4.
Doncic has been dealing with a nerve problem since Game 3. It’s no coincidence the Clippers have managed to win the two most recent games while Dallas’ star has been limited.
Game 5 is shaping up to be a little bit more competitive with Doncic making progress. There are still two days until the Mavericks take on the Clippers in Game 5. That’s two more days for his trajectory to stay positive.
The Mavericks need Luka Doncic health and on top of his game
Doncic scored 31, 39 and 41 points in the first three games of the series. However, he dropped off quite a bit on Sunday as LA dominated a 106-81 game. The point guard had 19 points while shooting 37.5 percent from the field.
The Clippers look like they’ve found their groove after a rough start. Kawhi Leonard and Paul George played at top level in their two wins while the team’s defense finally figured out how to slow down the Mavericks‘ attack.
They’re now heading back to Los Angeles with the series tied 2-2. Dallas won two games on the road already. However, Doncic was electric and his supporting cast was on fire. Things have definitely slowed down.
No team can be eliminated yet, but Game 5 will definitely turn up the pressure on whoever suffers defeat.