Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving played 45 minutes each in their overtime win over the Houston Rockets on Sunday, and so heading to the Dallas Mavericks’ Tuesday game against the Charlotte Hornets, many have been concerned about their status.
Considering that the postseason is close, it might benefit the Mavs if they sit both or any of Doncic and Irving to keep their legs fresher come the playoffs.
Nonetheless, even against a struggling Hornets squad, the Mavericks won’t do it.
No Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving on Dallas Mavericks’ Injury Report
On the latest injury report for the Mavs, both Doncic and Irving were not listed, which is encouraging news since it suggests that the star duo are healthy enough that they don’t need some sort of break or rest heading to the playoffs.
As mentioned, Doncic and Irving were really worn out during the Rockets clash. Doncic was even seen with his knees bleeding during the game. Towards the end, he even hugged Irving as the Slovenian star told his teammate that he’s really tired.
Considering everything that happened, it wouldn’t have been a surprise had Dallas opted to rest at least one of them.
In even better news, Josh Green has been upgraded to doubtful amid his ankle injury he suffered in mid-March against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Green has not played in their past 11 games, and while it’s unlikely that he’ll suit up against the Hornets, it’s a positive sign that he’s upgraded and not listed as entirely out.
Meanwhile, Maxi Kleber is listed as questionable due to back spasms. Dereck Lively II remains out and will likely be the case for the next couple of weeks amid his knee sprain.
Why Are the Dallas Mavericks Not Resting Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving?
The Dallas Mavericks have a valid reason for pushing hard and going all-out in their last four games. They are currently the fifth seed in the West and could secure a Top 6 seed if they are able to win at least two more games.
Dallas owns a two-game lead over the no. 6 seed Phoenix Suns and no. 7 seed New Orleans Pelicans. And considering that the Mavs own the tiebreaker against both teams, just two more wins should secure a Top 6 finish.
If the Mavs finish within the Top 6, they would have at least a week of rest before the playoffs officially start due to the Play-In. That should be plenty of time for the likes of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving to get some much-needed rest in time for the postseason.
The Charlotte Hornets 19-59 on the season, and Dallas should be more than capable of handling them. After that, the Mavericks have games against the Miami Heat, Detroit Pistons and Oklahoma City Thunder. While the Heat and Thunder game won’t be easy, the Pistons battle should be manageable for Dallas.
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