Luka Dončić Sidelined With Hamstring Injury Ahead Of Playoffs

Dallas Mavericks superstar Luka Dončić will miss at least two weeks with a left hamstring strain, the team announced Thursday. The injury, sustained during Wednesday night's win over the Golden State Warriors, comes just as the Mavericks battle for playoff positioning in the competitive Western Conference.

Dončić pulled up clutching his leg after driving to the basket late in the third quarter. He immediately exited the game and did not return. MRI results confirmed the strain Thursday morning, ruling him out through at least April 18.

The timing couldn't be worse for Dallas, which currently holds the No. 5 seed in the West. With just eight regular-season games remaining, the Mavericks (47-27) are fighting to avoid the play-in tournament. They trail the No. 4 seed LA Clippers by just 1.5 games.

Head coach Jason Kidd told reporters Thursday that the team will be "cautious" with Dončić's recovery. "Luka's health is our top priority," Kidd said. "We won't rush him back until he's 100%."

The injury is trending nationally because Dončić ranks among the NBA's most popular players and MVP candidates. He's averaging 33.9 points, 9.2 rebounds and 9.8 assists this season. Sportsbooks immediately adjusted Dallas' championship odds following the news.

Fans expressed concern on social media, with #PrayForLuka trending on Twitter. The Mavericks host the Houston Rockets on Friday before a critical six-game road trip. Kyrie Irving will need to carry more offensive load in Dončić's absence.

This marks Dončić's third hamstring issue since 2021. The Slovenian guard missed seven games earlier this season with a right hamstring strain. Team doctors believe this injury is less severe but still requires careful management.

The Mavericks' remaining schedule includes matchups against four playoff teams. Their final regular-season game is April 14 against the Oklahoma City Thunder. The NBA playoffs begin April 20.